Something incredible happens as we step outside: time slows down. Stunning imagery anchors memories into our minds. We understand what’s important. And we learn who God is and how He loves us. Join our family in discovering an abundant and adventure-filled life!
I began to understand why Halloween can be such a polarizing topic in the church community. And now as a Christian parent, I’ve reflected upon it more and faced even harder questions.
I looked at the clock on the oven and once I said “go,” my ears filled with words and phrases that broke my heart.
I fell as quickly into pride as my child insisting she had nothing new to learn and didn’t need lessons. Unfortunately it’s much easier to spot in our children than ourselves.
Panic and dread hit my heart. Have I taught her nothing? But then I heard that quiet whisper…
Panic and dread hit my heart. Have I taught her nothing? But then I heard that quiet whisper…
Defeat followed me the rest of the day. Embarrassment taunted me. Something happened when I reached the car. I became aware of the real battle I’d fought all afternoon.
“Why don’t you like talking about God?” I braced myself for her answer… and a Christian parent’s worst nightmare.
I wasn’t sure how she would react – if she’d get sad like me or feel scared that this could be our story one day.
As I soaked in the moment, I realized there was even more to gain from this. I was meeting my daughter for what felt like the first time.
It had taken me years to process my expectations and thoughts about parenthood, but only seconds for fear to introduce me to many more questions.
It had taken me years to process my expectations and thoughts about parenthood, but only seconds for fear to introduce me to many more questions.
My words encouraging her to see herself as beautiful and unique fell short when I could hardly look in the mirror without finding a flaw in myself. She was watching.
Raising kids stirs something deep in our souls — an innate knowing that our time is finite. Taking my kids outside in creation, I’m discovering how to stretch our time and pack it to the brim with meaning. God’s creativity provides the riches of resources for teaching the next generation who He is and how He loves us. Join our adventure and discover inspiration and resources for refusing rush, creating habits of rest, living intentionally, and making the most of this beautiful life!