As I was sitting in another medical office today I was thinking about how most of my time is now spent in maintenance. When we are young we seek to grow physically and be stronger. As we get a bit older we seek emotional, mental and relational development. Then we work at growing our families, job satisfaction, wealth, and security. Now as a senior citizen, these areas are not growing as fast, nor as broad. I spend my time exercising for some degree of health, reading to stay sharp mentally, watching the grandkids participate in various activities to remain in contact with family, volunteering in various service projects, and visiting doctors to take care of the body parts that tend to break down. I consider all of this to be important, but more maintenance orientated rather than growth opportunities.
II Peter 3:18 says, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” One area that I still seek growth is in my spiritual life. As this verse says, we should seek to know God more each day. As we walk close to Him, read His Word, talk to Him in prayer, and serve Him, we will be drawn closer to Him by increasing knowledge of Him. Doing these things opens our eyes and hearts to the grace He extends to us.
Whatever stage of life you are currently in, don’t wait to begin a spiritual growth pursuit. God desires to draw you near to Him. He wants you to know Him intimately. Open your heart to receive His amazing grace. He will open your eyes to see His majesty. He will open your ears to hear His Word. And He will open your soul to salvation and redemption.
Reluctant Retiree 