They Grow up Fast but Your Teaching will Last

Last Sunday was a monumental day in our family.  Our third child - the surprise that we call the "Texas Tornado" because of his rambunctious nature -- has become too big for the backpack carrier.  Let's be honest here...daddy, loved (and I mean LOVED) the time with each of the kids in that backpack carrier.  In case you doubt that, look at these pictures below:

 

Not only did that carrier provide great exercise, but it also afforded me precious, quality time with my kids.  The joy of my heart was having the children outside rather than sitting inside in front of a television or playing some video games.  My favorite activity of all is shown in the second picture -- them on my back while shooting my bow.  All three of them learned to sit still when daddy drew the arrow back and they were give their own version of commentary about the success of the shot afterwards.



Here is a short video of that last walk.  Make them feel special by taking lots of pictures or videos with them.  Record your voice and theirs to have forever.  I lost my mom to cancer about 3.5 years ago and miss her terribly.  Quite frankly, I call my dad's cell when I know it is turned off because the voice mail is her voice.  These pictures or videos would serve as constant reminders of your relationship if anything ever happened. 

These little ones grow up so quickly, and this blog is a personal reminder that every moment of every day matters for every child.  We are to be intentional and purposeful in our daily actions.  Why?  Everything that we do teaches those little ones something, so step back for a moment and ask yourself this question -- just what are you teaching your children right now in this moment?  Yes, these children grow up fast, but the things that you have taught them will last.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 127:3 that "children are a heritage from the Lord" (ESV).  Most versions of this verse swap out the word "heritage" and replace it with "gift;" so let's look at that for a moment.  The Hebrew term for heritage references property or possessions that are inherited from a benevolent father.  God is our Heavenly Father and He has entrusted us with something very special in giving us children.  We must make sure that we treat them like the special things that they are.  What we pass along to them, as they grow up and become parents, will be taught to their children; so our moments now will influence future generations.

In conclusion, God has given us one life to live.  We get one opportunity, so let's commit to being faithful to Him and getting it right.  We do that by remaining "steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" (I Corinthians 15:58).  Stay focused on Him and He will work through you in the lives of your children.



Big thank you to Texas Hog Hunters for the hat (the "Texas Tornado" loves that hat), Bracketron for the camera mount, UltraProX for the camera that recorded the last walk, and Kelty for the backpack carrier that last three children over 8 years.