Encouragement for the Mature Volunteer

Getting older is fun, isn’t it? We’ve all heard the jokes. Your knees creak, memory fades, hair gets little lighter — or thinner. But the truth is with age comes wisdom and experience. Just because you seen a few more birthdays than perhaps your friends that doesn’t disqualify you from volunteering in children’s ministry. If you have a heart for children than be encouraged! God wants you in His army. As someone staring 50 in the face, I can commiserate with the challenges, the thinking. However, I’m here to tell you that you matter. Your hands and feet, your smiles and hugs–your ministry. You matter. You do make a difference. God agrees–remember these verses?
Wisdom is with the aged in understanding and length of days. Job 12:12
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16
Even to your old age I will be the same, and even to your graying years I will bear you! I have done it, and I will carry you; and I will bear you and I will deliver you. Isaiah 46:4
They will still yield fruit in old age; they shall be full of sap and very green. Psalm 92:14
I thought age should speak, and increased years should teach wisdom. Job 32:7
Your life has given you a unique perspective on so many things. We grow older but that does not disqualify us from serving God even with ministry to children. Kids need to see what a life of walking with Jesus looks like. They need to see your life!
Another point to remember, as a mature volunteer you present something to children that many do not have — godly grandparents. Even in a limited role as a “Sunday” grandparent you still have the potential to influence a life in a powerful, scriptural way.
God loves you. You matter so very much. Thank you, mature volunteers, for serving God and serving children.
Read more from Mimi by following her blog at Tools for Kids Church.