Until today (Christmas Eve), I haven’t given much thought to the end of another decade and the start of 2020. While running errands with my wife, we talked about the presumed events of the next ten years. Grandkids becoming teenagers. Continuing to progress in our ministry. Potential relocations for work. Lots of productivity. Perhaps even retirement!
If my sketchy math skills are correct, I am approximately 80% done with my vocational ministry work. I started right out of the gate in the early 80’s, which makes me ancient. 4 decades of uninterrupted, full time ministry! If God continues to grant His favor, I have about 8-10 years of public ministry left. Of course, I plan to minister until I die, but our current church culture isn’t friendly to older men who still have a fire burning in their gut. So I’ll work in the main stream until I’m retirement age, then I’ll go rogue!
Another decade. 4/5ths done with my professional ministry career. What does that mean to me?
It means it’s time to lay down all hindrances. Abandon security and comfort. Reject mediocrity and status quo. Take risks, be aggressive, embrace innovation.
In my last decade of professional ministry, I want to work like a fiend. I hope to benefit from everything I’ve learned over the last 40 years. I want to reduce mistakes, focus on the most important issues and be as productive as is humanly possible.
Over the next decade, I’ll passionately invest in those coming behind me. I want to exemplify grace, mercy and compassion, and I desperately want to finish strong.
2020-2030 should be epic!
How about you? What does the start of a new decade mean to you?
2020… here we come!
Thoughts on Life and Leading 
Absolutely love the vision and your Leadership Bishop! Praying I am able to lead like you and our ultimate example in Christ! Merry Christmas and keep Moving Forward.
Alex Trebek and I would quibble about whether 2020 is the first year of a new decade or the 10th year of the current decade. 😀 But after that small quip, I’m right there with you. I turned 60 this year and have been contemplating what the next 10 years hold. I struggle with letting all the good things to do sometimes crowd out the best and trying to please too many people. Your vision is inspiring, and I’m thankful for your friendship! May God continue to bless your ministry in the “decade” of the 2020s.