Posted by
RecknHavic on Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:32:05 PM
I've never faced a greater challenge in my life than being a parent. And I've never experienced anything more rewarding. When I first became a dad, I thought every moment was a "teaching" moment. It was, but I was the pupil. Our kids show us glimpses of who we once were; or better yet, who we'd like to be. You see, parenthood isn't about the changes you make in your children's lives, it's about the changes you allow God to make in you.
I see parenthood in two aspects: a foundation and an expansion.
The system of values we give our kids teaches them right from wrong. But beware, if our own lives contradict what we say we believe, our children will see through this. Kids recognize hypocrisy easier than adults do. Values are taught by example and faith is THE core value we should instill in our children. There is no greater foundation to build upon than the belief that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. What we honestly believe about eternal life must be shared with our kids, and shared often.
The more difficult aspect (for me) is letting go. It starts early: from the day they're born, to the first day of school or to the first trip to a relatives (w/out us); really any extended separation. We naturally want to protect our kids, it's instinctive. But as hard as it is, we must begin to let go. One day the boy will become the man, but our influences will always remain. And as our kids lives expand, we will feel new, unexpected joys.
The other day my youngest daughter asked me what I wanted for Father's Day? I thought for a moment, and with a gleam in my eye I said, "you've already given it to me". She didn't understand what I meant. One day she will.
"He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge." Proverbs 14:26
"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6
