Ageless Wisdom
to encourage and equip Christians
Freedom to Serve through Love
“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13
How are seniors in churches perceived?
One statement I often hear is, “I can’t wait to retire so I can travel and play games like our seniors do.” Another is that seniors do very little, assuming that because they are retired from their vocational labor, they have also retired from spiritual labor. Or, that they are too old to serve at church.
There is always a little truth in perception, but if one broadens their scope they might be surprised by what they see.
Seniors at my church are examples, not of those who use their “freedom” as “an opportunity for the flesh,” “but through love serve one another” in ministry. Here are some examples of how our seniors serve through love:
- Sunday school (teaching children and adults)
- Worship and media (singing in choir, lights, cameras, graphics, instruments, serving and prepping communion, stuffing worship folders, and greeting)
- Hospitality (cooking, cleaning, waiting on tables)
- Caring (visiting, praying, preparing and delivering meals to shut-ins, widows/ers, and those who are sick)
- Memorials and funerals
- Missions (personal, local, and global)
- Biblical counseling
- Retirement centers (leading singing, teaching, visiting, praying)
- Major outreach events
- Community groups
These are just a few areas that I can think of right off the top of my head. The amazing part of their service is that many have been serving for decades simply for the glory of God. I thank the Lord for all these senior adults who choose to use their freedom to honor the Lord and who demonstrate love by serving the body of Christ.
I close with this final note. The Apostle Paul expresses through exhortation that if you are able and not serving, find a place to serve. Not only will you be glorifying the Lord, but you will be loving His church. Start using your freedom in Christ to serve and love others today.
Grace and Peace!
Glenn Tatum
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