When Christians Retire
We're thrilled to celebrate Marlene's upcoming retirement next month! After a remarkable career spanning multiple hospitals since 1982, including her most recent role at Lakewood Regional Medical Center, now part of UC Irvine, she's ready for this exciting new chapter. As she becomes more available, I'm really looking forward to doing more gospel ministry with her. It's going to be great to have her by my side as we serve the Lord together. May He bless us with many more years of ministry.
I draw inspiration from Doug Nichols and his wife Margaret, who led us at Christian Growth Ministries. Remarkably, they continue to serve the Lord with dedication and passion in their 80s. Here’s a flashback from 3 years ago from their Christmas newsletter:
THESE ARE GREAT DAYS TO SERVE THE LORD!
Christmas Greeting Dear Friends. Christmas season seems to open doors to share the gospel! As we reach out to others in kindness this helps open the door for the gospel! A Few Items for Praise and Prayer:
-Many pastors and their families in the Philippines have suffered lack of food and finances during the pandemic and most recent typhoons. Last week the Lord provided, through a church, a large gift to distribute among the most needy pastors (some whom have been living on an income of only $5-$30 monthly!). Two nights ago I worked very late arranging these funds to be distributed through 13 gospel partners serving these needy pastors. May our wonderful Lord be praised!
-Leg cramps woke me at 3:00 this morning, which enabled me to read some, and work on several needed ministry items until 4:00am.
-Later, after our time in the Word, Margaret showed me how to prepare garlic rice. Wow! So good with eggs, pandesal (bread) and coffee! Our favorite Philippine breakfast!
-This morning Margaret was able to prepare gifts, a hot roll and hot drink for the four garbage collectors! Some of our neighbors are starting to do the same.
-I have had fellowship lunch appointments with local pastors and Christian workers, mainly to pray for and encourage them in ministry. Trust to do more of this.
-Last week I was asked to give a short 20 minute “six point” Christmas devotional at our Bible Study Christmas Fellowship Dinner! My weak voice helped out.
-Margaret is still very busy these days preparing gifts for our 18 neighbors, the doctors office staff, the bank, friends, and others. Lots of sewing and baking! We include gospel literature and the Jesus DVD.
-The seven planned Philippine Pastors Christmas Celebrations have been held and provided for. Each pastor received a large box of food for their family. Praise the Lord for the sufficient funds provided to also give each pastor a small cash gift!
-Our son Robby and Deanna and family in the Philippines are planning special Christmas outreach assistance for 45 needy pastors over the next two weeks.
-By God’s grace and provision, Robby and Deanna, and grandchildren Ellie, Douglas and Patch and team put together large food baskets for the 100 families and children of Redemptio Christian School!
-Praise our wonderful Savior as last week we were able to order 3000 ESV Bibles and New Testaments to ship to the Philippines. Even with the cost of shipping, the total cost of the Bibles and NTs is only $1.25 each (total cost $3750). Please pray with us for the Lord’s provision.
Blessings in Christ dear friends,
Doug (and Margaret) Nichols
Take Away: Don’t waste your retirement years. Live for Jesus!
