A new year, means that it is time to make new habits, and one of the many new habits I am shooting for is keeping parents more informed about what their students are learning and doing at 24/7. I am going to try to make a weekly Bible Study part of our routine... all I'm asking from you is a few minutes if reading each week. After all I will be motivated to write if I know you are going to be keeping me accountable by reading it.
January Week 1
Tough Question - what is Jesus worth to me?
Scripture - "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. (Matthew 10:37, 38 NASB)
Application - Most of us would say that God is more important to us than anything or anyone else, but Jesus is asking us to take another look and search our hearts to see if it is true. So, think about the things in your life that take up most of your time. Chances are that you are passionate about one of these things, maybe even too passionate. Nothing, not even our closest relationships are supposed to be more important than following Jesus.
I think Jesus put these two thoughts side by side for a reason. Something that we love may need to be put aside, if we are going to be worthy of Jesus. That's a tall order. If we didn't love these things they'd be easy to but aside, but because we love them it will be a struggle to show God that we love Him more.
You can read about how Jesus put this kind of love on display in Philippians 2:5-11
You can also read about how God asked Abraham to demonstrate this kind of crazy love in Genesis 22. (Extra credit if you read them with your kids - double extra credit if you discuss them...)
I think about my two little boys (one with the same name as Abraham's son in the story) and wonder if my love for God is really stronger than my love for my boys...
What about you? What great love vies for top spot in your live?
I think my children are top on my list. Sometimes it is hard to imagine loving Someone more than my children. The ultimate sacrifice: How about when you read about a parent willing to give up their life for their children. It reminds me of Mark Schultz in his song" He's my son. " That song is based on a true story of a sons pain and possible death and his father asking God to take his life instead. Thank you Charlie for all you do with our teens and I would love to have this continue.. I know I would try to read it on a regular basis. Leslie Snow
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