Directionally-Challenged

I experienced a Dr. Seuss moment of fatherhood two nights ago. Getting ready to put the girls to bed, I uttered the following, in unscripted, unrehearsed honor to the great children's writer...
"Go, pick up your barbies and put them away. Not on your table, not on the floor, not in a big pile right by the door".

I'm reminded of a comedian, who tells the story of the listening ability of his children (or lack thereof), yet, when the grandparents came over and Grandpa no sooner stepped in with the announcement, "Now let's if Grandpa has any money for these wonderful children", they heard that and responded.

Similarly, so do we as Christians, respond to what sounds awesome, fun and befits our interests and desires. Not so much for the "feels like work" tasks, "do I have to" moments of dread and "it's not my mess" responsibilities. The more I realize I don't have it all together, the more I sense the profound, simplistic truth of the Apostle Paul, "follow me as I follow Christ".

As we lead our families, as we lead ministries, as we lead lives honorable to God hoping the world will take notice of the hope that is within us, I'm praying my kids don't remember all the times I've failed in life; but rather remember how I encountered some missteps attempting to follow Gods' lead through Victory road and by His grace, kept pursuit of Him who was leading me.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that there will be a level of continuity between what kids witness in the home and what they see during church services. Pray for the conversations that will take place in both home and church when there are seemingly gap(s) in the living out of faith. Pray for wisdom, for when Pastors are called to address the concerns of their kids. Pray for the integrity of today's youth and kids Pastors, that they remain devoted to pursuing God and fulfilling the call of ministry on their lives. Pray God answers favorable, the prayers they pray regarding the youth they serve and the situations in which they live.

Miracles. Direction. Focus. Clarity. Continuity of faith. Handed from one generation to the next. Witnessed. Exemplified.
Deemed worthy of pursuing Him. May our kids follow in the paths of good and righteous steps. For the glory of God.

-PNC

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