Doing Our Part for Our Generation…..And the Next

People need Godly role models in their lives — pacesetters who set the pace for others to follow. That’s the way Jesus set the example for His disciples — so that they would carry on His example to others. Think about how He encouraged, motivated, and stirred up the gifts of those around Him. He took a Motley Crew of disciples and turned them into on-fire and bold speakers, teachers, preachers and writers, with caring, compassionate and loving hearts for humanity.

We can take Jesus’ example in helping to raise up the next generation to be the best they can be. When we sow into our kids and grandkids, as well as other young people, as we help cultivate their talents and abilities, taking the time to listen and encourage them, as well as help steer them to be laser focused on getting to know God and His plans and purposes for them, they will not only impact their generation, but the generations to come.

I loved spending time, yesterday with one of my favorite families, the Moore’s. I heard about some of their dreams, desires, and already, so many accomplishments. I felt like a proud grandparent when Matt Moore, their 14 year old son, brought his Scout badges to show me (probably over a hunded). He is just one step away from becoming an Eagle Scout at his young age. Next week he leaves for the National Scouts Jamboree, in West Virginia (first time without Dad or Mom) and his excitement was contagious. He gave me a speech, worthy of a speech competition about his “scouting” dreams which included his Dad and him going to Philmont Scout Ranch – the premier High Adventure base. I love his passion to excel. Then there’s Kassidy Moore who is a college student and so very multi-talented in music arts, that doors are opening left and right for her talents. To say I’m proud of this precious family, puts it mildly. They are impacting their generation with the right stuff — stuff that matters to the world around them.

Then there’s my precious godson and his family who continue to impress me with their academic excellence, winning so many awards, Owen’s drive and determination to be anything he desires to be (he’s the one who had a slow start, being so ill in the beginning of his life, but now, nothing seems to hold him back), but most of all what impresses me about this family is their commitment to the family of God. Yesterday, was my love fest that I take in with such joy when I come to Tulsa, and then it was them showing me their decorating artistry for their “Mighty Fortress – In Jesus the Victory Is Won” Vacation Bible School that starts today. How’s that for empowering our kids during summer break, for the next school year when they’ll come into plenty of opportunities to need to call on their Mighty Fortress? VBS holds a special place in my heart because it was there that I truly fell in love with Jesus and invited Him into my heart.

This scripture became evident to me after I had connected with those two precious families: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 “The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. You are to love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Let these words that I’m commanding you today be always on your heart. Teach them repeatedly to your children. Talk about them while sitting in your house or walking on the road, and as you lie down or get up. Tie them as reminders on your forearm, bind them on your forehead, and write them on the door frames of your house and on your gates.”

I am always thrilled when I see the divine osmosis that takes place when our children have “aha” moments in their own walk with the Lord. It’s so worth it to teach them and fortify them with character building through incredible programs of excellence (like Boy Scouts) AND in raising them up to love the Lord because of the Christian education we ensure they get (like VBS). It’s a work-out, no doubt, but the rewards we reap, in the light of eternity, in focused training and disciple role modeling carries on from generation to generation. “We will tell the next generation about the Lord’s power and great deeds and the miraculous things he has done.” (Psalm 78:4)