By Tyler Johnson, LC communications
PINEVILLE (LCNews) – With music, Bible reading and prayer, Louisiana College opened its March 17 chapel service that featured Jeff Ginn, pastor of Istrouma Baptist Church in Baton Rouge.
Ginn outlined his “Growing Old Without Growing Cold” sermon from Joshua 14, saying one must have a strong start, a patient pace, and a fearless finish.
Illustrating his entire sermon, Ginn noted Yuichiro Muira, an 80 year-old Japanese man who in 2013 summited Mt. Everest, saying he had the will to strive for success even after growing old.
The sermon text indicates Caleb had a strong start because he followed the Lord whole-heartedly throughout his youth.
Moses promised land to Caleb and his descendants because of his heart and loyalty to the Lord and despite his lineage to Esau. Ginn said Caleb is an example for today’s young people who should not let others look down on them because of their age.
Caleb’s heritage was not powerful or royal, but God used him because God had a plan for Caleb. “Through humble origins God has blessed my life. Despite being told I wouldn’t amount to anything, God has blessed me,” said Ginn, whose parents were sharecroppers.
Sprinters work hard for a short period of time, but marathoners must pace themselves to finish their race, he said. Following God at a patient pace enabled Caleb to say he was as strong in his old age as he was when Moses first commissioned him, and that he could fight with the same energy he once had.
A fearless finish is the final key to sustaining a meaningful life, Ginn said. Toward the end of Caleb’s days, he was “dependent on the Lord and determined for the Lord.” Growing old is inevitable, but it doesn’t mean you have to become dull to everything around.
“Most men don’t die of old age, they die of retirement,” Ginn said. “God has a retirement plan – it’s called heaven.”
