50

If you read this article the week it was published, it is not only the opening week of Tennessee's football schedule. It is also the week of my fiftieth birthday. Fifty. Remember when that sounded so old? It doesn't seem quite so old any longer. I hoped by now I would have accumulated more wisdom (along with, perhaps, more wealth!). But after fifty years I have learned a few things. 

First, family is really important. When we married and had children, everyone told us how fast that time would go. Now, with two married and the third trying to get his first foot at the door, we are nearly empty-nesters, and I see how true that was. I find myself clearing my schedule of things that used to seem so important so I have time to spend with my wife, three sons (plus two bonus daughters), and my parents. And what is most important is not that I have taught my sons how to change the oil, throw a curveball, or shoot a rifle. It's teaching them to love, trust, and follow the Lord. 

Second, friends are really important. By that, I mean two things. One, the opinions of those who don't care for you aren't as important as I used to think. I am still a people-pleaser and, by nature, want to be liked by everyone. But I have increasingly realized you cannot please some people. And some are always looking for a reason to be offended, mad, or upset. Less and less does that bother me. I still want to build bridges and make friends, but life is short, and time is precious. And I am less concerned about pleasing the "unpleasable." At the same time, I value those people who love, encourage, and care for me more and more. Those who have seen me at my worst, know my weaknesses, and still show mercy, love, grace, and forgiveness (and, in the process, show me God), I value more and more. I want to help them, build them up, and serve them. Those are the relationships that matter. 

Third, Jesus is most important. As my back aches more, my doctor begins more conversations with, "As we get older…," and I go to cemeteries to pay respect to an increasing number of my generation, I am reminded of my mortality, frailty and need to focus on the eternal. I am so thankful that I can be a better daddy, husband, friend, and citizen because of His impact on me. But I'm even more grateful for hope beyond this short life. I pray I can face the last half of my life (or third, or whatever) with grace and confidence because of Jesus and set that example for others. And each year, I become increasingly joyful about the opportunities to teach others about Him.

If only I had paid closer attention sooner. All along, He has been telling me to love my family, others, and the Lord. The older I get, the more I hope to have the wisdom to do just that—and to lay up treasures in Heaven.

Corey Sawyers is the preaching minister for the Martin Church of Christ and an adjunct instructor for Bear Valley Bible Institute. He is Melody's husband and Daddy to Garrett (and Bailey), Gordon (and Lauren), and Gannon. He hopes the Vols win by a nifty 50 this Saturday!