READING IN THE PARK

I am a retired florist, but I still love working and being as active as I can. It helps me feel purpose to “give back” to others. I began asking the Lord what my retirement years should look like–how I could continue to honor Him with my gifts and talents. My church has “adopted” a local school in our community that we serve in many ways: furnishing backpacks, handing out food, supplying coats for the winter. One thing that interested me was reading with children who are behind at school and don’t have parents heavily involved in their lives. We call it “Reading in the Park” and I love it. To see children, as they begin to understand and develop a love of reading, is so rewarding. Investing in them so I can ultimately tell them about the good news of Jesus. Loving on them so they can see the love of Christ, all for His glory. All it takes is a couple of hours every Friday to show these children that they are loved, not only by me, but by their Creator. This is what my retirement years look like. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.