I will always thank God for how my parents have given me an awesome example of longevity. They arrived as church planters on the field with no personal family background in cross-cultural work. They had been saved as young newlyweds, were discipled at a Baptist church, surrendered to serve when they heard a worker to Venezuela speak, packed up with a baby to go to Seminary, graduated with three added children (one of them was me!), began deputation, then moved to the other side of the world. They settled our family down in a place profoundly different from the one they left. It was the early 80s. They are now seniors in their early 70s but still living, albeit temporarily, on the same field. Their hearts still beat with the heart of our Savior toward the lost and believers needing to grow in Christ.

What better example of longevity is there? They aren’t the type to stubbornly stick it out or get pressured to hold tight. They just keep surrendering. Dad often makes the big decisions and mom follows suit. It’s not always an easy conversation or smooth shift in whatever direction. There are constant stresses and pressures, frequent spiritual attack. Health issues must be addressed.

I remember as a young child visiting with grandparent figures in my life, thinking highly of many of them. I thought it would be grand to be like the women if I get to be that old someday. They reflected grace and whatever had filled their lives; they didn’t sit and bemoan. Now my parents are in that category, and I’ve seen much of the “inside scoop” of two people who have served long and well. I’ve learned that it is not impossible. I’ve also learned that the Lord uses imperfect people on purpose! No matter the chronological or spiritual age, God is always sharpening and building the one who keeps surrendering and living with eternity in view.

Wherever you serve, foreign or domestic, busy or in a lull, picture the long game. God’s got lessons for us in every season, at every stage of life as we stay rooted in Him.