“Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do nor forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” (Psalm 71:17-18, NIV)

I ARRIVE a couple of hours before services start on Sunday morning. I look over my lessons and spend time in prayer before the congregation begins to arrive. I also do some building preparations. I turn on the air conditioner, set up the coffee on the patio, test sound equipment, put the flowers in place at the front of the auditorium, and unlock the doors.

As I pass down the hallway of the education wing, I pray for the little children being taught to rely on the Lord. I pass through the auditorium and I spot several pews where I know the elderly members will be seated in another hour or so, and I pray they will receive encouragement in the service (v. 18). I can almost hear the teens downstairs as their confidence in the Lord is reinforced with ...