We now know that older people are most susceptible to COVID-19 disease. We are also hearing about large numbers of deaths from COVID-19 in “nursing homes.” That is because the infection and mortality rate in such facilities is disproportionally high. My wife and I were discussing this, how tragic and sad that so many have died … Read more
We will learn a lot from this pandemic. But perhaps its greatest lesson—one that history teaches us over and over again—is that we can neither predict the future nor control it. At best, the only thing we can do is to anticipate adverse events and plan for them accordingly. Now that the “coronavirus recession” is … Read more
A lot has changed in the social and economic landscape in the last few weeks. The far-reaching effects of the spread of the coronavirus have spared no one—we have all been affected one way or the other. It is truly one of those times when God “makes his sun rise on the evil and on … Read more
For many of us who remember the 2008 market crash and ensuing recession all too well, this time feels remarkably similar. In addition to the really-scary-virus running around, we also have business shutdowns, massive cash liquidity infusions into the economy by the federal government, and rising unemployment. As I write this, there is a two trillion … Read more
It’s honestly hard to know what to write about in times like this. If you are a Christian believer, I trust you are seeking encouragement and guidance from God and His Word, and strength and consolation through his Holy Spirit. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Like … Read more
Note: Because of extreme volatility, the stock market data I use in this article is changing daily (sometimes hourly). To keep it as current as possible, I used stats for the S&P 500 as of the market close on Tues., March 3rd. You have no doubt taken note that the reported value of your retirement … Read more
Last year, I attended a week-long event that dealt with integrating faith and work in the life of the Christian. (If you’re interested, check out the Redeemer City to City Faith and Work Initiative.) I have always been interested in this topic. But I attended the conference because we want to do more ministry in this … Read more
I retired in late 2018, so 2019 was the first full calendar year in “retirement” for my wife and I. I’ve written about my decision to retire and some things I’ve been doing since then. Because this is a blog and not a magazine (although you may not think so based on the types of … Read more
In my last post, I suggested some New Year’s resolutions you may want to consider. In this article, I want to carry that theme forward, but in a slightly different way. Not too long ago, I read an article on the Center for Retirement Research website titled “Husbands Ignore Future Widows Needs.” As I read … Read more
