Jim at 102 1/2
- James Houston
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
June 18th, 2025
Dear friends,
When you are over 100, half birthdays count again! I have had a number of requests for an update as to Dad’s health and wellbeing, and thought that others might also be wondering.
Dad continues to fare well, although we find that he tires more easily and takes longer
to recuperate. In late March he had some difficulties with a low heart rate and that left him quite fatigued, having tremors and being a little more emotional. However, he has
felt somewhat revitalized with the warm weather and an influx of visitors. Regent Spring Session has been a wonderful time for Dad to see alumni and friends who do not regularly visit him. He has had some lovely surprises from far away friends.
While his writing has essentially ended, he continues to peruse copious books. There are regular requests for lists of books that he ‘simply must have’, and he finds great delight being surrounded by his treasures. His emailing days are waning, but Dad’s great joy still continues to be sharing with others. He loves to share some of his abundant new ideas, many of which have quickly become fact in his mind.
Praying for and encouraging his friends in their walk with the Lord and blessing them in their ministry is at the core of his intent. It is beautiful to see the Holy Spirit’s ongoing work through this 102 ½ yr old. While our bodies and minds may deteriorate, God continues to use us as long as He gives us breath. We give thanks to God for the life of our dad and for Dad’s continuous service for his Friend.
We are so grateful for the continuous flow of visitors. You bring joy and fresh air into Dad’s life, and it is a delight to see you come to him. Thank you for this blessing. Because of his fatigue, we have overall reduced his appointment bookings to one per day. However, depending on Dad’s health, we do have some flexibility. It is important to book using this link as this is a great help for us: https://calendly.com/jameshoustonrc/coffee-date-with-jim-houston-clone.
Please feel free to reach out to the family directly, through Dad’s email, or the website, if you have any questions.
Many thanks for your ongoing prayers, love, and support for Dad. He is blessed by so many around the globe, and therefore so are we.
Together in Christ,
The Houston Family
"I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe" Ephesians 1:16-19a NIV
Dr Jim Houston, I'm delighted to read and see photos from the family update that you are healthy and living well at 102+! Your presence in our lives continues to be a blessing, through your books when we are unable to visit you in person in Vancouver. 😊 I have been reading your book "A Vision for the Aging Church: Renewing Ministry for and by Seniors" (InterVarsity Press, 2011). What you and Dr Michael Parker wrote then is more relevant and important now. This gives me hope and it is my prayer that seniors in churches will use their gifts with heart, soul, mind and strength to the glory of God. Why should we be surprised if God uses elders to…
I count it a privilege and will never forget being invited to their apartment back in 2011 when finishing my Regent degree. We could see Granville Island. Thank you, Jim, for all you do!
It was wonderful to visit with Jim on 6/2. As you said his work table was heaped with interesting books as he continues to grow in knowledge. We were deeply moved that he was eager to anoint us with healing oil and bless each of us just before our departure. I am right now enjoying some of his older publications, “I Believe in the Creator” (1980) and “The Transforming Power of Prayer” (1996). The way the Houston Family supports and cares for your father is also a huge blessing to all of us. Thank you. Marilee Melvin