Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965) was already a renowned organist and theologian when at age 30 he decided to become a medical missionary. He commented on his decision: “For years I had been giving of myself in words . . . But this new activity would consist not in preaching the religion of life, but in practicing it” (Out of My Life and Thought). I was 15 when I read this quote in Schweitzer’s autobiography, only a year before he died at his hospital in Lambaréné, Gabon, at age 90.

There is irony for me in Schweitzer’s resolve to put the religion of life into action rather than just preaching it, because I became a preacher. I still ponder how to practice this wonderful life of faith rather than just talk about it. That’s the most important idea I take from Schweitzer. How do I put faith into action?

A second idea is the Christian always has to be open to the Spirit. It was the chance finding of a missionary magazine that lead to Schweitzer’s becoming a medical missionary. What surprising opportunities may God give me?

The third point has only come to me recently. You’re never too old to serve the Lord. Schweitzer was still at work at age 90. I may be retired, but I sense God has more in store for me.

What about you? Are you ready to be surprised? Have you figured out how to act out of your faith today and tomorrow and the next day. I assure you, God isn’t finished with you yet.

Read Isaiah 6:8 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Originally posted by Wayne in September 2018