Joshua 14:6–15

As Christians, there is no retirement

Last year, when the church invited me to rejoin the pastoral team of Kum Yan Church in a part-time capacity, I accepted without much hesitation. After all, it was an affirmation from the church. In truth, I have never really thought of myself as retired. I am still serving and have the energy and drive to continue. Caleb has been a timely reminder to me and a wonderful example to follow.
After the years of wandering in the wilderness had ended, Joshua prepared to lead the Israelites into Canaan to take possession of the land that God had promised them. At that time, Caleb came to Joshua and volunteered for a task that the rest of Israel would rather avoid — to conquer Hebron. It was located in the hill country, inhabited by the Anakites, a people known for their great size and strength, and protected by fortified cities that were difficult to capture.

… Well done, good and faithful servant!… (Mt 25:23)

Most people prefer the easier path rather than the harder one. Why then did Caleb choose the more difficult task? There are several reasons.

1. Moses had promised him this land.
45 years earlier, Caleb had been one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land (see Numbers 13). Hebron was among the places he had walked. Although 45 years had passed and Caleb was now 85 years old, he had not forgotten the promise Moses made to him. He had been preparing himself through all those years for the day he would receive this land.

2. He was mentally prepared.
Caleb did not see himself as an old man; he saw himself as a warrior. He believed he was still strong and full of courage. He said to Joshua: “I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I’m just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then.” (Jos 14:11) This reminds me that I am a soldier of Christ, not a retired man. What matters most is holding firmly to God’s promises and continuing to serve Him.

3. He was physically prepared.
It is likely that Caleb took good care of his physical health and kept himself active. When he came before Joshua, he stood tall and walked with strength. This reminds me of the importance of keeping active and paying attention to our health and diet.

4. Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly.
In this passage, it is mentioned 3 times that Caleb “followed the Lord wholeheartedly” (v8, 9 & 14). Caleb did not focus on the difficulties around him but fixed his eyes on God. The key to his life was his wholehearted devotion to the Lord. This reminds me to read the Scriptures faithfully each day, draw near to God, and obey His Word. This is the secret to continuing faithfully in the Lord.

Dear brothers and sisters, following God and doing what He calls us to do is a lifelong journey. As Christians, there is no retirement. Our “retirement” will only come when we meet the Lord face to face.
May we prepare ourselves each day — physically, mentally, and spiritually — so that we can serve Him with our very best. And when we finally meet the Lord, may we hear Him say: “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matt 25:23)