Finding purpose in your Golden Years

By Rev. James Voorman

King Solomon records these words for us in Scripture, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2a ESV). With these words, we are reminded that things change. Life changes, there are ebbs and flows, ups and downs, various seasons along the journey. One of these seasons of life that brings its own challenges is retirement, or senior living.

Visiting with members and residents in care facilities during their golden years, a common question that gets asked is how to fill the time. Our bodies may not work like they used to, we may be unable to get out and about like we did before, and that can leave us wondering about our purpose, our contributions to society and to the church.

So, what is there to do as a Christian during your golden years? How can you still serve and find meaning and purpose in your Christian vocations?

First of all, as hard as it may be to hear, part of your purpose can be found in being the person who others care for. Just as you, throughout your life, found purpose in caring for others, so now also others are able to find purpose as they care for you. So, use these relationships to encourage and be thankful. Help to make their life more joyous as they serve and help you. And while you thank God that He uses you and allows others to help serve you, here are some more ways to fill your time:

Prayer: Reach out to your pastor and get a list of the people in your congregation who need prayers. Spend time every day praying for those people who are sick, injured, struggling, and grieving. And don’t just pray for those in need but pray for every person in your church by name. Prayer is powerful and a wonderful gift given to us by the Lord, so in your available time be a prayer warrior for your church.

Read/study: Reach out to your pastor and ask for some suggested reading materials and devotions. There are many options, such as Hope- Full Living. See what your pastor might suggest for daily use. Then fill some of your time with reading and meditation on the Scriptures. As you’re able, attend a Bible study, where you can learn from your fellow Christians and walk together through the Word of God. If you live in a long-term care facility, you can start a Bible study if one isn’t already offered.

Talents/abilities: What hobbies or talents do you have that may benefit others? Do you like to quilt, knit, stitch, and sew? Can you make things like hats, gloves, blankets, and the like to be used for local organizations helping others in need? Do you bake well? People always love baked goods especially around the holidays. Are you musical? Teach music lessons, join the choir or handbell group, share your gifts with those around you.

Mentor/teach: There are many young members of your congregation that need your wisdom and encouragement. Reach out to those you know with an encouraging word. Write letters cards supporting others in their faith. If you see young men or women in your congregation who would be good church workers, encourage them. Push them toward ministry with your love and support. (Personally, the words from members of my home church are the reason I became a pastor!)

For everything there is a season. Whatever season you are in dear friends, the Lord is with you! Christ has died and risen for your sins, and salvation in Him belongs to you. Delight in that good news as you fill your days with love and service. While life and seasons change, you always have a purpose in Christ.

The Rev. James Voorman is the director of pastoral care at Lutheran Life Villages, a care facility in Fort Wayne, Ind.