The title I chose today is a direct quote from a message written by the prolific writer and pastor Charles H. Spurgeon. It’s contained in one of his daily devotional books which I’ve read every year since my daughter gave it to me almost 30 years ago. I wasn’t retired then, but now I am and these words have a much deeper meaning to me. They are much the same as what God said to Joshua in the beginning verses of Joshua 13. Paraphrasing, God recognized Joshua’s “old age” but told him, “Joshua! You may be advanced in years but you still have work to do. So, get busy!” Then a very ambitious plan of dividing land among the tribes of Israel was given him.
Most of us will someday step away from our life’s work and professional careers and turn our attention to how we’ll spend whatever years we have left on earth. A lot will depend on our circumstances, particularly our health and strength or that of our loved ones. But for men and women of God, the task of being “fishers of men” and building God’s church will never be finished until God says so, and he calls us home.
This old gospel song says it well: “We’ll work ‘til Jesus comes …”
Rev. Harold P. Hazen, Fort Wayne, Ind.
Extended Scripture: Joshua 13–14 (KJV)
