Walt Mueller in his book titled Understanding Today's Youth Culture states, "The degree of influence that the world has on our children depends greatly on how involved we become in their lives. Media, peer groups, and a host of other influences are there to pick up the slack left by absent, busy or indifferent parents."

Parents, you can have a major influence on your child. In fact, the role of parenting has never been as important as it is today. The dominant culture is shouting commands to our kids that are in opposition to all that God stands for. We must continue to take our place along side our children and give them direction. The words of scripture written so many years ago have not changed in their importance. "And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your hearts and you shall talk of them when you sit by your house, and when you lie down, and when you rise . And you shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. And you shall write them on the doorpost of your house and on your gates." (Deuteronomy 6:6-8)

May and June are special family months. Mother's Day, Graduation Day and Father's Day all remind us of the important foundations of life that are laid in the home. This spring we are even taking a Sabbath week, May 2-8 with no church events or meetings. We are encouraging families to take extra time that week to spend together to build into your families and friends. Don't underestimate the impact that you make in the lives of children and youth. Make extra time this month to build on those foundations. May God richly bless you in this great calling.


Pastor Craig