As we get older, we often discover that many of the expectations we had for ourselves will not materialize. We find ourselves in a dead end job. Our marriage is not as loving or fulfilling as we hoped. We can’t afford our dream house. Health problems limit our activities.
On the other hand, sometimes we get what we want and still don’t feel good about it. After working nonstop for years to get a promotion, we find that our family has become alienated by our lack of attention. The boat that we wanted so badly becomes a burden rather than a joy. Retirement becomes a struggle to make ends meet instead of the relaxing reward we expected.
What, then, provides meaning for our lives? Ultimately, the process toward fulfillment starts when we look beyond ourselves. Too often we think in terms of “me” and what I can do to make “myself” happy. Instead, we need to ask God what He wants us to accomplish through His help. In other words, our life needs to be one of service to Him in whatever avenue He chooses for us.
When I think of service to God, I usually think of a full-time Pastor, missionary, teacher, or other church professional worker. Undeservedly, these occupations are usually on the lower end of the pay scale in dollar terms. However, they can certainly be among the most rewarding in terms of impacting the lives of others in a meaningful way. We should regularly thank God for those dedicated workers and ask his blessing on their efforts among us.
Fortunately, we don’t have to be full-time church workers to be of service to God. People from every walk of life including students, housewives, employees, and retirees all have something to contribute. Volunteers who work behind the scenes in churches throughout the world help spread the Gospel out of thankfulness to God who loved them enough to send His only Son to die for them.
Jesus died for you too. Take an inventory of your availability, abilities, and resources and ask God how He would like you to use them to His glory. Then follow His direction. It will bring meaning to your life and to the lives of those you touch.