Part 6 – What It Means To Prepare for the 2nd Coming of Our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ
For ordinary senior citizens who don’t preach, there are alternatives which do not require them to work too hard during retirement years. Their free time gives them the opportunity to become more serious about salvation according to the Holy Bible. While others think they ought to be active almost everyday so as not to become weaker and weaker, careful reflections will lead to a better plan — a much better Way of Living even while retired.
Studying the topic of salvation according to the bible can inspire an elderly person to remember his or her past, how time was spent. Was it in accordance with Wisdom taught by past generations? Are there parts of Life to repent about. Retirement age also gives plenty of hours for communications with God; thus having lots of chances to confess sins and find something to do as a sign of repentance. Salvation should have been “worked out”, says St. Paul.
Philippians 2:12 English Standard Version
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,”
For people who used to be doing business or working for government or the private sector, the common focus of daily activities is getting things done. Consistent accomplishment of duties and responsibilities normally results in moving up in one’s status within a company or in society. The more good accomplishments, the better. Income increases. Savings grow. And the usual results would be improvements in the quality of life. I know of one movie actor who did succeed with everything needed to be popular, respected, awarded, rich, and ready with a memorial plan years before dying. He must have been able to help out many Filipinos who joined the movie industry. And his movies are still appreciated up to now.
But I do not know if he pleased God. Only God knows. Only you would know whether or not you actually learned the discipline required of a Christian such that your life can be emulated as having “walked with God” or performed a mission for God during a lifetime in the spirit of His Righteousness. In order to evaluate yourself, knowing God’s teachings would be of great importance. Learning more and more about God’s Righteousness as taught in the bible is a major part of the discipline that leads to Eternal Life. Next to learning such Truth whether from directly reading the bible or listening to religious preachers, is to apply God’s Wisdom in practical living.
A retired parent might find limited opportunities to apply many biblical teachings at least compared to the time when very active. However, the topic of salvation will also provide insight into sharing what one already knows about a Christian discipline as well as the set of Wisdom in various situations. A retired senior citizen can serve as ADVISER to the youth, especially to those who find it difficult to insert biblical studies in their line of work. Coach the children. Coach those talking nonsense in Facebook.
Technology has made it possible for senior citizens to become very useful to many people daily without leaving home, Just be sure you are sharing God’s Wisdom as it applies to lives of others.
Matthew 5:14
“Salt and Light
13You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its savor, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a lampstand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
And what will be your certain benefit?
James 5:20 International Standard Version
“you may be sure that whoever brings a sinner back from his wrong path will save his soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.”