A friend wrote a few days ago to ask why I’m still involved in mission (evangelism and disciple-making) at my advanced age.
By the way, I just got a name tag from my church with the word “octogenarian” next to my name! They were honoring all of us born in 1946, the first year of the baby boomers. For some reason “octogenarian” makes me feel older than saying, “I turn 80 in December.”
So why am I still involved in relational disciple-making?
- It’s still the only form of ministry that makes sense.
- It can be done by anyone. I’ve written on this before, as in “Instant Participation, Instant Success” and “Epoxy and Disciple-making.”
- It can be done at any age. Jim Downing started doing Bible study with TV news anchor, Dianne Derby, when he was 99 years old. She spoke at his 100th birthday celebration in 2013, and at his memorial in 2018. Her book Two Hundred Tuesdays is worth the read.
Jim Downing with Dianne Derby at his 100th birthday celebration.
- If I can leave behind a few men to carry on the ministry and help others do the same, I will have done something. I’m meeting with two men, leading them through Every Man a Warrior. They will both be leaders. One has already had serious discussions with men’s ministry leaders at a large church on starting Every Man a Warrior.
- I don’t think we’re supposed to quit. I hope to die with appointments on my calendar. “Sorry, Bob won’t be able to make lunch today…”
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. (2 Timothy 2.2, NIV)