I retired in 2021 and I have to admit that I didn't have a plan for what to do next. My wife gave me a set of brand new gold clubs. I began playing and the more I played the worse I got. I kept the pro shop in business by buying golf balls to replace the ones I'd lost. I also started taking guitar lessons; I've been playing for years but I thought it would be good to have some proper lessons. I think my teacher was relieved when I told him I was going to stop. 8 year old kids seemed to be progressing faster than myself.
In time a couple of opportunities opened up that I have thoroughly enjoyed. I've been teaching a Thursday morning Bible class at Church of the Master in Phoenix. This is a long-running class and we've had students from four different churches in attendance each week. I share the class with another pastor. I do six months and he fills the other six. This works well for me. It means that I can pour a lot of time preparing for class each week but then take a nice break, refreshed and ready to resume when it's my turn again..
We finished the Acts of the Apostles last week and today we'll take some time to share what we've learned from Peter and Paul and the members of the first Christian church of Jerusalem. We've taken a good look at some of the heroes of the early church; we've seen how the Holy Spirit had broken down barriers so that the Jews would see that it was God's will that Gentiles would be received in the church; we've watched as Jesus' words in Acts 1:8 were fulfilled by Paul and others by their missionary travels; we've marveled at the faith of Paul as he continually trusted in God's promises, in spite of beatings, shipwrecks' and every other disaster that came his way.
I have especially enjoyed being with the class each Thursday. They have shown a strong desire Bible study and to "hear them, read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them," (as the old Collect prayer teaches). They are also fun to be with and, as an added bonus, serve the best table of goodies I've ever seen (and being on a diet since January, I've haven't been able to try a one of them!).
I also wrap up my six months of service this Sunday at Chris the Redeemer in Phoenix. Leading worship, preaching God's Word and administering the Sacraments has been a blessing and opportunity I didn't imagine I would have. I will certainly enjoy my time but will look forward to being back in November. Until then, I'd better stock up on gold balls. Fore!!
Dads and Moms, do you think much about the example you are setting for your kids? Do they see you in prayer? Do they find you reading your Bible? The next time you are tempted to "veg out" in from of the TV, try something different. Gather the kids together and tell stories. Talk about a favorite family vacation. Share the funny story you heard. Read Bible stories to your kids. Tell them what Jesus means to you. Share your faith in God and encourage your kids in their walk of faith. Most of all, ask the Lord to fill you with His Spirit and His love so that you might always be that Godly example that your kids and grandkids need to see.
May Your Spirit e'er be near me, That I may bear abundant fruit.
May I daily sing Your praise, From my heart glad anthems raise.
Till my highest praise is given, In the endless joys of heaven.
Lutheran Service Book - #589:4
E. Stanley Jones, Christian missionary and author
Bo Giertz, from To Live With Christ
