Generations

Everyday Talk

Have you heard it said that what children become is often more “caught” than “taught?”  What we say about what we believe (or should believe) about God and His will is very important, but so is what we say and do when going to the grocery store, talking about other people, making our goals and plans, watching a basketball game, discussing the weather, sitting at the dinner table, etc.  This “everyday talk,” as described by author John Younts, “reveals us as we really are—our character and our priorities. Our children model our everyday talk because that is what they hear most of the time. By it, we teach them our worldview, our ethics, our theology, and our relationship with God.”

Throughout Your Generations

The words we share (or don’t share) are a vital component of what is passed on from generation to generation. Every generation has a critical role to fulfill.  Almost 40 times through the first few books of the Bible, God instructs His people to continue many practices or teachings “throughout their [or your] generations.” This does not happen automatically. So, how do we get the job done?  The Biblical models of parenting and discipling give us clear illustrations.  Scroll over these Scripture references and observe the common theme of these passages:

Deuteronomy 6:7, Ephesians 6:4, 2 Timothy 2:2, Psalm 145:4

Grandparents

Our annual Grandparents’ Day in early October tries to bring generations together in a simple way to help accomplish this mission–“Partnering with parents to help train and equip students to live effectively in God’s world.”  The elementary school loved having over 500 guests this year to welcome and honor.  They even gave generously to impact the future of their grandchildren’s education.  It’s the time they get to spend together, though, that is the real treasure and provides huge opportunities for influence.
http://faithlafayette.smugmug.com/FCS/2012-2013-Schol-Year/Grandparents-Day-2012/26498776_JH7M69

Carrying on what I have learned

My own mom would have come to be with my boys for Grandparents’ Day, as she had many times before.  But, she had recently been diagnosed with cancer.  Then, on Oct. 28, she entered heaven by God’s grace through faith in Christ.  While looking through her Bible I found many Scriptures she had marked, plus a variety of notes.  One message she lived out and wrote down to share with future generations was, “I can’t, but He can!  When we say ‘I can’t,’ we discount the power of God in us!  Ephesians 3:20; Galatians 2:20.”  I have thought of this multiple times in the last two weeks.  If she can suffer terminal cancer without complaining or grumbling, while praising God and blessing others up until the day she died, then I can accept with joy, and for God’s glory, what He lays before me.  That is certainly a lesson I want to pass on to my own children and students at FCS!

I’d love to hear how you think parents and Faith Christian School can keep partnering together to equip and encourage this generation of students.

Jonathan Lambeth