Butte Creek Mill

"I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith." —Philippians 1:25 

There’s an old mill on Butte Creek in Eagle Point, Oregon that was built in 1872. It’s weathered and worn by the daily grind, but it’s still going strong, doing the work for which it was made.

You too were made for a purpose: to work for others “progress and joy in the faith.” Even when old and gray you can do the work for which you were created.

Perhaps you wonder why you’ve lingered so long. Like Paul you long to go home and be with the Lord. The reason you “remain and continue” is because you’re still needed—like Paul, you’re “necessary for the sake of others.” There are individuals to touch with the love of God through the words you speak, the counsel you give, the letters you write, the kindness and compassion you show.

“We are immortal,” Augustine said, “until our work is done.” The time of our death is not determined by anything or anybody here on earth—physicians, actuarial tables, or the average human life span. That decision is made in the councils of heaven. When your work is finished, then and only then will God take you home. “When David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep…” (Acts 13:36)—and not one second before!

David Roper