Monday, February 19, 2024

What Next?

“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” — Psalm 71:18, NIV

Recently I announced that I am retiring early from the best job I have ever had, serving as Church Office Administrator to a beloved congregation who have become family to me.  To some, the decision does not make sense — I am middle-age, healthy, at the top of my game, and well-paid.  I am good at what I do, and enjoy it most days.  So, why now?  What next?

Why now?  It’s a simple answer, really.  I want more time — more time with family, to take care of my home, and to nurture my body and soul.  I have worked in many positions over the past forty-plus years meeting the needs of others, and it is time now to take care of the people and projects that matter most to me.  Losing my mom and brother, being separated from my other siblings and family, and realizing that we are all getting older have heightened the sense of urgency to retire so I can have the freedom and flexibility to prioritize what is truly important.

What next?  That’s a question only God can answer.  There are a number of things I’d like to accomplish in retirement — write another inspirational book, become a better musician, spend more time with family and friends, and volunteer for causes near and dear to my heart.  More than anything, I want to continue growing in my relationship with God, to see where He leads, and to do what He would have me do.

Retirement will be an adventure — thrilling and challenging and fulfilling.  Having no idea what to expect, it will be a time of walking by faith in my God, who will supply what I need to serve and thrive from day to day.  My heart for ministry has not changed — God is simply moving me to minister to my family, friends, and neighbors while I still have the health to do so.





Copyright © by Dee Dee Wike. All rights reserved. www.deedeewike.com


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