May 2009

“Reflections of a Parent”

This month on May 23, our youngest daughter Michelle graduates from high school. When we moved to Upsala in 1997, we joined many parents from our church who had first graders who were excited about starting school. Although I do not presume to speak for each parent, I think we share some common experiences as Christian parents that I would like you to think about.

The journey started even before they were born, we prayed for them. Together we have walked and encouraged our kids on the tough days of lost crayons, games, and papers. We have faced the tears of stress, rejection and failure. We have also celebrated success and growth. We have tried to control our tongues when bad calls were made by refs, and to be the cheerleaders when the games were won or lost. We have tried to help with homework and keep them relaxed when the pressure was on. From the start we tried to instill God's ways in thier hearts. We read and tried to apply this scripture:

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deuteronomy 11:18-19

Now we are in the process of letting go. As we let go, we wonder if we have completely prepared our son our daughter for this crazy world. Our kids tell us not to worry, but that doesn't always help. Like so many times in our life, I am reminded that it's all about trust and grace. We trust that they will remember some of the life lessons we taught during their first eighteen years. We trust that they will depend on God and his strength for direction in their life. We trust God will walk closely with our kids in the hard times and good times. It's about grace because we see how special our kids are in spite of all our mistakes as parents. We continue to hope that they will imitate Christ. And although we may have our struggles, we hold on to the promises of scripture.

Trust in the lord with all you heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5,6

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

We ar so proud of our children who are now outstanding young adults. They are not perfect (they are much like their parents) but they are great and we love them with all our hearts. As Paul worte to the Philippians, I wish for all our graduates this year.

9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ -- to the golry and praise of God.

The mixed emotions of graduation are also a part of many other stages in life. You may be facing a time when your faith and trust are put to the test. Your first response may be fear. Please know that our God is faithful. He will be with you and guide you. Rely on his strength and trust him with all your heart.

In Christ's Love.

--Pastor Craig