Some years ago, my pastor at the time told me a simple story I have never forgotten. He had recently visited with an older couple in the church–in their late 80s, as I recall–and he sat across their living room from them as they talked. He sat on a recliner, and the couple sat on a couch together holding hands. Their enduring love for each other was evident in their affection.
Here’s what my pastor told me: “Chuck, it hit me sitting in that living room that the day would someday come when it’s just my wife and I. The work of ministry will have slowed down. The travel will be finished. The meetings will be over. It will be just my wife and I — and I pray we will be happy and comfortable just sitting on the couch holding hands no matter how old we get.”
He went on to say, “I realize we’ll be more likely to share life like that together in the years to come if we share life together like that today.”
As you can see, his words stay with me this many years later–because they were on target then, and they’re still on target now.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on Chucklawless.com.
Engaging Exposition 2026
Engaging Exposition is Southeastern Seminary's annual preaching conference designed to equip local church pastors to preach and lead biblically. This two-day event delivers compelling preaching, practical breakout sessions, free resources, encouragement, and opportunities to network with like-minded pastors. The theme for 2026 is “Leading from the Pulpit.”
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