HEAR THE WORDS “MID-LIFE” and it is usually attached to the word “crisis.” But if we take a close look at the word we see anything but crisis. Rather, it is the combination of two words, “mid” and “life.” “Mid” which tells us that this is neither the beginning nor the end. At mid-life we find ourselves in a place that gains from the wisdom and experience of the past and also looks forward to a future in which that wisdom and experience can be dispensed.
It is also a word that speaks of “life,” but sadly we have given the phrase the specter of death, or at least an increased awareness of its soon arrival. Yet, if we truly find ourselves at mid-life, say 45 years of age, then would it not be correct to say we have 45 more years to go? (Lord willing.) That’s more than enough time to make a positive impact in our world.
This weekend ushers Felton Bible Church into “mid-life.” At this 45th anniversary we will need to ask ourselves whether this will be a time of mid-life crisis or mid-life celebration? Will it be a time of dwelling on the past or planning for the future? Will it be a time of fearful aging or of expectant hope? Will it be a time of bemoaning the passing of our “youth” or will it be a time where we joyously look forward to the generations of believers yet to be born?
Forty-five years ago those followers of Jesus Christ who gave their heart soul, mind and strength to the founding of this fellowship of believers could not have imagined the changes that would take place in their world. Yet, they faithfully moved forward following the leading of the Holy Spirit. They created a place where the unchanging Truth of God could be proclaimed in order to see lives changed in the midst of an ever-changing culture.
May their legacy continue, to the glory of God.