I am now 57 and the thoughts of retirement do enter my mind. Currently, I feel like I am semi-retired as I work in my home supporting three fellows with disabilities. My routines in life have dramatically changed, and in my opinion, for the better. I don’t need to deal with office politics, deal with bosses or commute to work. I actually make significantly more money than when I was the boss of Group Homes.
Retirement is not all that it’s cracked out to be. I see many a retiree lonely because the void was filled at work. They liked serving others. They had a purpose. They can’t just call up their old work friends because many are still working or have moved away. Their health insurance costs rise and the exercise they got moving from one place to other while working has greatly changed. Their mental sharpness has changed because they don’t think on their feet as much anymore. They start to see the sunset years as merely awaiting darkness to begin. God intended us to have a purpose in life and serve others, not sit idly waiting for the curtain to fall. Serious plans are needed before one takes the retirement plunge.
In my case, I love what I do and frankly have no desire to retire. I am serving the Lord by helping to make lives better for marginalized people. Actually, many are coming to Christ just by seeing my commitment to praying, learning, and growing through Him daily. However, if I was to retire, my efforts on sharing Christ would greatly increase. I would write more articles and devotionals. I figure I can’t take anything with me except those I bring to Christ so it’s a great endeavor and eternally valuable. I would learn how YouTube works and do short, impactful devotionals. I wouldn’t be concerned with the number of followers. If I had only one benefit, that is fine with me.
What are your plans for retirement? Have you thought of ways you can share Christ? After all, the only thing you can take to heaven with you is people. Why not take a few with you?
by Kent Brosh a Kawaiaha’o Blog Contributor
Alberta, Canada
