May 12, 2016
About the eleventh hour…He asked them, ‘Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’ ‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered. He said to them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard.’ Matthew 20:6-7
Almost three years after the retirement age of sixty-five, on May 5th, I was named the new Chairperson of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, succeeding Shirley Dobson. I can honestly say I am honored, humbled, and very overwhelmed by the trust invested in me by the National Day of Prayer Board, Committee, and Shirley Dobson herself. I am now facing a new set of responsibilities, with a new set of friends and staff, under the glaring public spotlight.
Photo Credit: Ron Walters
I am encouraged by the example of the prophet Daniel, who, in his winter years, prayed and recorded a prayer that moved Heaven and changed nations—a prayer that has become a pattern for my own as I pray for America. It seems obvious that God uses senior citizens! Yes He does! And so my predominant reaction to my new appointment is one of deep, humble gratitude to God. At my age, when many employers would not think of hiring someone for a very responsible position, God has expanded my territory and called me to a great work.
I share this as encouragement for anyone who is of retirement age or older. Praise God! He can use us! At this eleventh hour, present yourself to Him for His service. Ask Him to show you what He would have you do. Let Him know you are available. Then join me as together we work in His vineyard…
For His Glory,
