We all need time for ourselves, whether it is to relax from the pressures of the day (whatever they are) or to do something which we enjoy. When we have been working it is nice to switch off, perhaps with a glass of wine, maybe by soaking in a nice hot bath.
Eventually we get to retirement when we can stop working and please ourselves what we do all day and every day.
Don’t you believe it! For a start by this time you will, in all probability, be a grandparent, which means that your children now have an extra pair of hands to help with all sorts of things. You’ve probably done some babysitting over the years and helped in some small way at different times. Now you are available, so others believe, at almost any time and able to do any “favours” that are needed. It can make you realise the truth of the saying “I don’t know how I found time to go to work, I’m busier now than ever.”
Don’t worry, enjoy the fact that someone thinks you are special enough to be allowed to make their life a little bit easier, and remember the benefits you gained in their position. Also bear in mind that God doesn’t want you to just switch off and fade away. You are still just as important to him as you ever were. He will find you things to do and, to your surprise, you will enjoy doing them.
“So Eli said to Samuel “Go and lie down again, and if someone calls again, say “Yes, Lord, your servant is listening.” So Samuel went back to bed. And the Lord came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel replied, “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3: 9 – 10 [NIV]
Today very few are fortunate enough to be spoken to in the manner that Samuel was, but this doesn’t mean that God no longer speaks to us. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself doing something that you would have considered “not me.” God knows the plans he has for you and me and he has his own ways of letting each of us know.
Lord, whenever I have a little spare time remind me to listen with my heart for your prompting and guidance, that I may fulfil the plans you have for me. Amen.
