Gray hair is a glorious crown; it is found in the ways of righteousness. Pr. 16:31(CSB)
According to a 2017 AMS Compensation Study, 88% of associational leaders are 50 or older. Well over half are 60+. Participants in the study age 50-59 made up 32% of the total; age 60-69, 45%; age 70+, 11%.
According to a 2017 AMS Compensation Study, 88% of associational leaders are 50 or older. Well over half are 60+. Participants in the study age 50-59 made up 32% of the total; age 60-69, 45%; age 70+, 11%.
Why are the vast majority of Associational Mission Strategists (AMSs) over 50? I have noticed this trend for decades. It is not a new phenomenon. I believe it is because wisdom and experience in ministry and life is considered advantageous to this role, and that someone 50 or older typically brings that to the table. Also, it is much easier on one’s family if the children are older or grown since the AMS is often asked to preach, visit, and minister in different churches each Sunday. Pastors and lay leaders often look for someone seasoned in ministry because they believe they will be able to better influence leaders in leading the association.
An AMS with gray hair usually elicits more respect from pastors and church leaders, and by this point should know whether his spiritual gifts and calling are a good fit for this position or not.
Believe me, I am not opposed to associations calling younger associational leaders. In fact, I was in my mid-thirties when I was called to serve in this role the first time. I was told that I was a good associational leader during those years. But I know that I am not only older but wiser and a much better associational leader now than I was then.
I love seeing sharp guys under 50 called to this role. I am for them! But don’t be surprised if calling AMSs younger than 50 continues to be the exception rather than the rule.
As you know, the Proverbs state generally true (not absolute) principles. Generally, those who live right - and for the Lord - will live longer lives, and therefore be able to attain to the stage of having gray hair. Those who disobey God’s Word and live raucous lives tend to have a shorter lifespan due to their behavior catching up with them.
Unfortunately, those with gray hair are not typically very well respected in our culture. We live in a society that is very youth oriented, youth focused, and youth driven. But, according to Scripture, gray hair is a blessing and should be seen as the “crown” of one who has lived a long, righteous life. We should not look down on those with gray hair but respect and esteem them.
If you have gray hair, appreciate it, live a righteous life, and don’t be ashamed of your gray hair. If you don’t have it yet, live a righteous life and look forward to it, don’t dread it.
Your brother in Christ,
Ray
Pr. 3:5-6
Quotable Quote: The way to experience abundant life today is to face the inescapable reality of death that will come tomorrow. Looking death in the face can make you wise, and ultimately it can provide you with peace. Paul Tripp, 9.9.20, Wednesday’s Word: Look Death in the Face
An AMS with gray hair usually elicits more respect from pastors and church leaders, and by this point should know whether his spiritual gifts and calling are a good fit for this position or not.
Believe me, I am not opposed to associations calling younger associational leaders. In fact, I was in my mid-thirties when I was called to serve in this role the first time. I was told that I was a good associational leader during those years. But I know that I am not only older but wiser and a much better associational leader now than I was then.
I love seeing sharp guys under 50 called to this role. I am for them! But don’t be surprised if calling AMSs younger than 50 continues to be the exception rather than the rule.
As you know, the Proverbs state generally true (not absolute) principles. Generally, those who live right - and for the Lord - will live longer lives, and therefore be able to attain to the stage of having gray hair. Those who disobey God’s Word and live raucous lives tend to have a shorter lifespan due to their behavior catching up with them.
Unfortunately, those with gray hair are not typically very well respected in our culture. We live in a society that is very youth oriented, youth focused, and youth driven. But, according to Scripture, gray hair is a blessing and should be seen as the “crown” of one who has lived a long, righteous life. We should not look down on those with gray hair but respect and esteem them.
If you have gray hair, appreciate it, live a righteous life, and don’t be ashamed of your gray hair. If you don’t have it yet, live a righteous life and look forward to it, don’t dread it.
Your brother in Christ,
Ray
Pr. 3:5-6
Quotable Quote: The way to experience abundant life today is to face the inescapable reality of death that will come tomorrow. Looking death in the face can make you wise, and ultimately it can provide you with peace. Paul Tripp, 9.9.20, Wednesday’s Word: Look Death in the Face
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