2010 is a significant year in the Boomer Generation. As we have observed our generation, one of the important milestones we have seen is the movement from making future decisions based on "necessities" to making decisions based on "values." For most of us, this seems to take place somewhere in our mid-fifties. So if we use 55 years old as that milestone, half of us are at that point now, or will be by the end of 2010. The rest will be there by the end of 2019.

The implications for this are enormous. It means that there are approximately 39 million of us Boomers in this country who are considering decisions about our future based on our values...what we think is really important at this stage of our life. It is true that the "necessities" have not gone away. In fact, some of them have grown larger. But we look at them differently than we did when we were younger.

As those of us who are Christ-followers enter this phase of life, our future contributions are going to make a difference. This is not a time to be fearful, to be lethargic or paralyzed. We may not appreciate everything we see happening on the national and world stage, but we can...and we will...make a difference with who we are and where we are.

As you consider how you might invest your future, perhaps the following values might help you connect with ministry options that are a good fit:

We Desire To Make A Difference: From our young adult years until now, we have always wanted to make a difference. We've seen things we knew were not quite right and have looked for ways to bring about appropriate change. Find a group that is involved in a cause you believe in and give it your all! We at Finishers believe that the greatest cause is the growth of the kingdom of God throughout the world. Within that great cause, there are many, many expressions that could fit your interests and passions. Find one and do it!

We Desire The Freedom To Get Something Done: Many of us have come to the point in life where we desire the freedom to act...to see things accomplished and to not be held back by regulations and policies that thwart creativity and action. We thrive in organizations that are not so hierarchical; rather they champion the wisdom and passions we bring to the table. We are looking for the opportunity to provide direction, to make decisions...to get things done!

We Desire To Continue To Grow: Isn't it great to relax in the fact that our best years could still be ahead of us? Once we pass the "I don't have anything to prove" stage, we enter a new phase of life. We know we have things to offer, but we also know there is much to learn and it's OK to admit it. With this understanding, we are looking for groups that embrace us...groups where we feel needed and appreciated. Groups where we can continue to grow...to learn...to sharpen who we are in order to make an even greater impact.

Making a difference...getting things done...continuing to grow. If you haven't already, hook up with a group that fits these values and "lose your life" for Jesus. It doesn't get any better than that!