If I’m honest, I must confess that I often covet what John has. Not his material possessions, but his gifting, opportunities, and influence.  I’ve often overheard myself saying “If only I had that position, or that platform, I could do so much.” I’ve found myself praying: “God, if you let me do that, I will do great things for your Kingdom.”

By the time you reach your 50s, you have likely been pursuing purpose within a context defined by family and career for half your life. In doing that, you have built an infrastructure that supports your effort. 

Nearly every significant decision was heavily influenced by the purpose of family and career.

My contemplation of finishing well started a little sooner than it does for most.

When I was in my mid-30s, my father’s two best friends died on consecutive days. I knew them as Uncle Mike and Pastor Bob. I had known these men for many years and had observed them in the decade or so after they retired. Attending funerals within a couple days of each other gave me an opportunity to reflect on what it takes to finish well.