Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16
“Almost all bodily excellences alter with age, and while wisdom alone increases all things else decay. Fasts and vigils and almsdeeds become harder. So also do sleeping on the ground, moving from place to place, hospitality to travellers, pleading for the poor, earnestness and steadfastness in prayer, the visitation of the sick, manual labor to supply money for almsgiving. All acts, in short, of which the body is the medium decrease with its decay.”
St. Jerome of Stridon in Letter LII to Nepotian, 3, dated A.D. 394.
Nepotian had abandoned the military for the clerical calling, and was now a presbyter at Altinum. In this letter, Jerome reminds him the duties of the clergy and on the rule of life which they ought to adopt.
Notice that he helps him realize that the older he gets, the harder it will be to live and serve generously. The same is true for us. We may grow stronger spiritually with age, but the work will test us physically.
In response, Jerome does not urge him to pursue comfort, which is what most people do in modern times as they age. He reminds him that it will be hard to do these things. Look at the list. What would be challenging for you?
For some people, service is easy but prayer is hard. Others say showing hospitality is the most difficult. Lean into these areas, even as you age because Jerome knew something I am learning.
We think we will be drained by the tasks. And whilst we do them it may well exhaust us. But, at the end of the day, the reward for the service far outweighs the physical cost. Stay the course even if it is hard.