From Zero to Fifty

Yesterday was my birthday ... and it was a BIG one ... 50 years old!

To celebrate the occasion - I decided to clear my calendar and drive to the lake to spend the day reflecting and journaling on the day! In a few weeks, I'll begin preparing my sailboat for the launch of the new new season! Wahoo!

I've been "grieving" this birthday some - mostly just the reality that I am no longer a "young man" - and never will be again! On the last night of my 40's I played basketball with the guys - and my aches and pains are feeling it! I'm just glad I can still play ... even though not like I used to! The physical impact of aging doesn't really bother me - but it is clearly evident.

The one thing I think is getting better - is my reputation - which I'm thankful for! After 25 years of full-time ministry more folks are looking to me for wise counsel. I'm getting the opportunity to "teach" and "coach" and make an impact on the next generation of leaders - which I consider and honor and a treasure to guard. I want my life to be an example - I want to honor the Lord in my actions.

I am thankful as well for the things I've learned in these first fifty years of my life! Here are some of the things I've learned so far ...


In my first decade (0-10), I learned ...

... how to walk and how to talk!


In my second decade (11-20), I learned ...

... how to learn and how to put my faith in Christ!


In my third decade (21-30), I learned ...

... the delight of being a husband and the joy of being a father!


In my fourth decade (31-40), I learned ...

... how to be a better leader and began "teaching" some as well!


In my fifth decade (41-50), I've learned ...

... how to multiply myself a bit more strategically!


Apart from the "physical" impact of aging - I'm actually looking forward to my 50's! I believe I will have an opportunity to make a greater difference in the second fifty years of my life than I did in the first fifty!

By the grace of God - I'm prepared to grow for it!