I love days like today. Thursdays are the day that puts life into perspective for me. It is the day that I get to spend with my family in the morning and with my kids alone in the afternoon as my wife goes to work. It is a special day for all as we venture off to do some new things together whether it is a walk or a playground run. Whatever it may be, it is our day to do it together.
I’m not sure how much of you value moments and opportunities like I do, but I have to say that it wasn’t always this way for me. I still sometimes get caught up in the things that have to get done, the work or chore mentality, the immediate pressing needs instead of the long term benefits of engaging with my family the way that they need me to be with them. It is the ministry of presence, practicing the ministry of being with them right here and now.
Sometimes it is the most discouraging of times having to constantly repeat myself to my kids or there having to be some discipling or teaching moments (or days). It’s hard, but I know that in the long run it is also going to be the most rewarding and beneficial for all.
How are we able to do this in the first place? Well, we have decided as a family to make certain sacrifices in order to value each other and have designated family time. We realize and understand that not everyone can live in this reality. With certain financial obligations, debts to be paid, school loans, and the like it is very difficult for people to have time specifically designated for their families. The Lord has provided for us and has honored our desire to glorify His name by setting aside this special time with each other.
I’m not sure what today is going to fully bring to us, but I know that it is going to be another awesome day with my clan. We will learn together, grow together, and simply be together at different points throughout the day. I’m honored that I get the chance to be part of it because eventually the day will come when my three little ones will be on their own, all grown up, and conquering the world.
Time is short, what are you doing with it? What are we doing with it overall? Treat it like a gift and take the opportunity to invest in those that are connected with you. Value them, cherish them, love on them. It will yield incredible and awesome fruit in the long term, even though in the short term it might be difficult. I’m reminding myself again of this reality.
Be blessed today and go get ’em. Now, time for me to go play some trucks with my boy. Back at it! See you soon.
Jay
This is great! Time spent with validity is time invested. Taking time for what matters, to hear whispers in a world racked with noise is what living is about. Don't exist in the chaos, but resist it, work against it, and work for something better. I think that's the essence of any ministry. The world is loud, and dark. A turbulent place where there are only two options: succumb to the fear of failure and give up. Or, struggle and fight against it all as a mustard seed fights against all the things in this world, and see what God will ordain. Family time and extended (church family, sphere of influences, etc.) family time is what ministry is about! Plus, you get to play with trucks… ;)
K. Minogue
I think that it is all about developing community with each other. It's one of the cool things that I look forward to in church and also to Untorn. I love the virtual community that is built.
It really is he church, the bride of Jesus. I think the local family is meant to model the family of God. We are part of the bride and it is a good thing. Christ is the head and the leader. We practice being His followers and He is the one that we all have in common. What better way then to be with like minded people that are on the mission of life together.