What's that, Lord?

"Lord, I hear this "salt of the earth... light of the world" (Matthew 5:13-16) thing, but I reckon you must be talking about those young guys who climbed up the mountain behind you with gusto.  You know better than others that I am just an old worn out Methodist preacher who is past his prime and got very little left to give.  Surely, You take into account that I am closer to the end of my days than those young fellows who still have so much eagerness.  My salt has about been licked off and my light has gotten dim.  

I am sure You understand and will give me a pass so I can sit over here in this chair and rest.....What's that, Lord?...No, I didn't hear anything about a senior exemption, but I just figured....well, you know, Lord, most places have a mandatory retirement age when it is assumed you are too old to be considered as having value, so I figured the Kingdom must work much the same way....What's that, Lord?....You will let me know when it is time to take to the chair, and in the meantime, I am to keep on in a business as usual spirit....And, I will, Lord, but I just figured by now You had someone to take my place.  

You know, I have been doing this disciple thing since I was boy on the cusp of becoming a man and this old salt block has gotten mighty thin and the light that has shined so long is surely in need of some new batteries...What's that, Lord?  Yeah, I will hang in here until You decide to take me home.  Actually, Lord, it is good to know You don't see me as a throwaway even though such is how I feel some days.  Thanks for keeping me on the payroll.  Thanks a lot.  Amen and Amen."