Christians Should Never Retire

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At 76, Mavis Albin proves that you’re never too old to get involved.

Program Transcript

When people think of the word
“grandparent,” it is often connected to another word: retirement. It seems like
there’s a memo going around that when we get older, we have to slow down. But
let me tell you about a lady who disregarded that memo. Her name is Mavis
Albin, and she’s a grandmother of eight. Instead of trading in her heels for a
pair of comfy slippers, she bought some Nikes and hit the gym. Since childhood,
she dreamed of playing basketball, and at 55 those dreams came true. She began
playing for the Baton Rouge Tigerettes, a team of charming Southern belles—all
grandmothers. Now, at 76 years old, she’s shooting for her eighth gold medal at
the Senior Olympics.

Mavis’s refusal to slow down when she
reached “a certain age” should be an inspiring example of how we are to
continue to grow as Christians. As followers of God, we never retire, not until
we are called home. In fact, as we add years to our lives we are actually
developing as believers—growing in wisdom, holiness, and influence. Solomon
wrote about it in Proverbs: “Gray hair
is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs
16:31).

The process of sanctification allows us
to progress toward holiness as we continue in obedience to the Word of God.
That’s why so many older folks become great mentors to young believers. If you
are someone who is further down the road of life, you’re in an ideal position
to impart wisdom and encouragement to those who are just starting out on that
road.

As Christians, we should be proud of
our age. The more years we gather, the more motivated we should become to stay
on top of our spiritual game and not just sit on the sideline. Think of Mavis
and her team of basketball playing seniors. They’ve got no intention of
retiring anytime soon. Our enthusiasm should mirror theirs. So fight the good
fight, finish the race, and continue to grow in faith and understanding. And
consider finding someone young to encourage and mentor for the Kingdom. You may
be surprised to find that your best years are still ahead of you.

I’m Joseph Tkach, Speaking of LIFE.

Program Transcript

When people think of the word
“grandparent,” it is often connected to another word: retirement. It seems like
there’s a memo going around that when we get older, we have to slow down. But
let me tell you about a lady who disregarded that memo. Her name is Mavis
Albin, and she’s a grandmother of eight. Instead of trading in her heels for a
pair of comfy slippers, she bought some Nikes and hit the gym. Since childhood,
she dreamed of playing basketball, and at 55 those dreams came true. She began
playing for the Baton Rouge Tigerettes, a team of charming Southern belles—all
grandmothers. Now, at 76 years old, she’s shooting for her eighth gold medal at
the Senior Olympics.

Mavis’s refusal to slow down when she
reached “a certain age” should be an inspiring example of how we are to
continue to grow as Christians. As followers of God, we never retire, not until
we are called home. In fact, as we add years to our lives we are actually
developing as believers—growing in wisdom, holiness, and influence. Solomon
wrote about it in Proverbs: “Gray hair
is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs
16:31).

The process of sanctification allows us
to progress toward holiness as we continue in obedience to the Word of God.
That’s why so many older folks become great mentors to young believers. If you
are someone who is further down the road of life, you’re in an ideal position
to impart wisdom and encouragement to those who are just starting out on that
road.

As Christians, we should be proud of
our age. The more years we gather, the more motivated we should become to stay
on top of our spiritual game and not just sit on the sideline. Think of Mavis
and her team of basketball playing seniors. They’ve got no intention of
retiring anytime soon. Our enthusiasm should mirror theirs. So fight the good
fight, finish the race, and continue to grow in faith and understanding. And
consider finding someone young to encourage and mentor for the Kingdom. You may
be surprised to find that your best years are still ahead of you.

I’m Joseph Tkach, Speaking of LIFE.

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