I read a devotional recently that used this word very effectively. I had oddly thought I needed to read something radically inspirational that particular morning because I was feeling somewhat “épuisée” as the French would say – just completely spent after days and days of activity. (For some reason the French word épuisée carries more impact when I describe the feeling of being exhausted)
Ignitable…it seems to be a word that doesn’t relate to retirement at all, but a word that describes a much younger season in our life, when the world was laid out ahead of us and we had a myriad of paths to choose – and each one was enticing! What got us excited, what “lit our fire” as we considered what college to attend, who to marry, what career path to follow? What ideas touched us so deeply that we were “ignitable” in response?
Ignitable…seems to be something behind us and not ahead of us. Much of this retirement season is viewed through the lens of relaxation, move more slowly, be less anxious, exert less energy. We’re looking for ways to offload after decades of productivity, responsibilities and simple weariness.
Ignitable…is there anything left in us? What a foolish question! Of course there is! We have so much more to give and so much more time in which to give our gifts away. We have flames still to be lit, opportunities to run the race, exciting days ahead. We are a force in our sphere of influence, in our families, in our communities. Let’s get busy!
So without saying more, I’m bowing to the famous and influential Irish missionary, Amy Carmichael, who spent her years in India serving and ministering to women. Her words to ponder…
From prayer that asks that I may be
Sheltered from winds that beat on Thee,
From fearing when I should aspire,
From faltering when I should climb higher,
From silken self, O Captain, free
Thy soldier who would follow Thee.
From subtle love of softening things,
From easy choices, weakening;
Not thus are spirits fortified,
Not this way went the Crucified,
From all that dims Thy Calvary,
O Lamb of God, deliver me.
Give me the love that leads the way,
The faith that nothing can dismay,
The hope no disappointments tire,
The passion that will burn like fire,
Let me not sink to be a clod:
Make me Thy fuel, Flame of God.
Amy Carmichael
Don't Waste Your Retirement 