CCU Chancellor Reflects on Boomers’ Extended Opportunity To Serve
Dr. Donald Sweeting, Chancellor of Colorado Christian University, a noted academic, minister, and author, recently shared his thoughts on the changing landscape of aging and service in an article for Christianity Today.
Sweeting begins by recounting a conversation with his 99-year-old father, who playfully reminded him that at 60-something, he still has his "whole life ahead" of him. This exchange highlights a significant demographic shift in the United States - Americans are living longer than ever before.
The Dramatic Rise in Life Expectancy
Sweeting highlights a remarkable increase in US life expectancy, which jumped from 47.3 years in 1900 to 78.7 years in 2010. This significant leap of over 30 years in just over a century represents a transformative change in human longevity. It's a testament to advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and overall quality of life. This extended lifespan offers new opportunities and challenges for individuals and society as a whole.
A Demographic Milestone on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Sweeting points out a striking prediction: by 2034, for the first time in US history, there will be more people over 65 than under 18. This demographic shift will have profound implications for various aspects of society, including the workforce, healthcare systems, and social structures. It challenges traditional notions of retirement and raises questions about how we view and value older adults in our communities.
The Changing Face of Retirement
Sweeting observes that many baby boomers are redefining retirement. Instead of stopping work in their 60s, a significant number are continuing their careers or starting new ones. Some are looking at 20 or more years of full-time employment ahead. This trend is driven by various factors, including financial necessity, personal fulfillment, and employers' desire to retain experienced workers. It challenges the traditional concept of a 40-year career and suggests we may be moving towards the idea of a 60-year career span.
Sweeting challenges his fellow boomers to consider how they can serve the Lord and His kingdom in these extra years. He suggests that churches, schools, and ministries may need to adjust to this new reality, potentially reconceiving education as a lifelong endeavor and finding meaningful ways for older members to utilize their gifts and experience.
Read Sweeting's full article on Christianity Today where he shares his reflections on prominent evangelical leaders who served well into their later years and his thoughts on stewardship of health for longevity.