Around my house we are in a season of finishing things up. Some are easy and come with a sense of relief...baseball season, golf season...the fourth grade. These things we check off our list and celebrate jobs well done...and no more homework for a time.
And the oldest is completeing her senior year and we have watched our last softball game, attended banquets, made countless decisions about the new season to come. That is what parenting is...completing seasons...letting go.
We sit at the table and address graduation announcements chatting as we work. She tells me she has given up social media for a while. This is a surprise and my questioning glance says it all. Why? Why have you given up something you like so much? Why make this sacrifice now?
In youth group they are participating in a study...Not A Fan. She explains that the twittering and posting has gotten in the way of completing this study. Taking time she could be dedicating to His word. I thought about this for a few days and it stirs in me an encouragement I would like to pass to you.
Church and youth group have been an essential part of my children's spiritual growth in so many ways. Though it cannot replace what we teach in our homes...it makes a lasting impact. There were times she would have liked to stay home. Times when not participating would have been her choice, when she thought I was an unreasonable momma on this subject. Still I held my ground...encouraged her to be a part of the group, go to camp, and participate in mission opportunities.
It has provided a place for her to grow relationships with peers and mentors who encourage her to love God and love others. She has learned to put a roof on and meet new people and pray and worship and grow in the hard places. She has learned what it is to be a member of the body of Christ and to study his word. It has made all the difference and I believe it can impact your children and teens as well.
Need a place for your kids? There are many in our community. Most churches have a group of youth who meet regulary. Me, I am partial to the one at First Methodist, and there are summer activities being planned right now. Upcoming events for kids will be posted right here on this page. Links for teen events will be coming soon.
Want more information about our children and youth ministries? Just click right here and e-mail me at stacy@jacksonvillemethodist.org.
