“Well. What do we do now?” my friend asked her husband as they sat at the kitchen table looking at each other. She had retired at the beginning of the year, and for a few months, had kept very busy doing things she couldn’t do while working. Life had evened out now, and she found herself asking the same questions Dick and I asked ourselves after retiring: How can we make a difference? Where are we truly needed? What can we offer?
It isn’t that there is nothing to do. Household chores and yardwork go on and on. There are always hobbies, travel, exercise, part-time employment, learning new skills, and joining special interest clubs. No, it’s a question of purpose, not a need to keep busy.
The answer for us has been joining in and volunteering at Greencastle Baptist Church. As part of our service there we are now leading the retirees group. At our first meeting of the year this week, GBC retirees asked the same questions of the group that Dick and I asked ourselves: As a group, how can we make a difference? Where are we truly needed? What can we offer?
God planted many ideas in members’ minds including a birthday card ministry, ways to welcome and follow-up with new people, and suggestions for how to create inter-generational connections within the church and with those who are shut-ins and nursing home residents. We also included activities aimed at ministering to our own group through fellowship and education events.
No matter what our age, God can use us. I love the AI summery of what the Bible says about older people. “The Bible presents old age as a time of honor, wisdom, and God's enduring strength, commanding respect for elders (Leviticus 19:32) and emphasizing the value of their experience and guidance. (Job 12:12) Aging is seen as a natural part of life, a blessing, and a sign of a life well-lived, with older believers continuing to bear fruit and serve God. (Isaiah 46:4) The elderly are encouraged to embrace their continued purpose, share their wisdom, and provide a legacy of faith for future generations. (Psalm 92:14)“
Retired? Considering retirement? Remember, God has a purpose for you!
Be encouraged!
©2025 Pamela D. Williams
