Write Your Own Story

Last night's screening of Confessions of a Prodigal Son was a success I don't think our Lene Bean will soon forget (the cheers when she came on the screen warmed my heart).  What an incredible project to have been a part of and what an even greater message to behold. Truth be told, there were parts that E and I grasped hands tightly and tears might have come. The scene we were in came and went quickly but the overall feeling that came with being a part of this production, in supporting it, in promoting it, in viewing it with friends and family was a moment I hope our kids always remember.  Raising kingdom kids in today's saturated world is an everyday struggle, filled with blessed moments of incredible joy like this.

Surrounding ourselves with Godly people, good examples of people following their faith, leaning into the Lord and fully trusting Him: His timing, His ways. . .all of it is hard.  As I suppose it should be.  But the part I am coming to realize is that it may be difficult, but it is not impossible. . .Jonathan's life verse shouts from the recesses of my mind, "I can do all things with God who gives me strength."  And I suppose the story we are telling is part of our ministry.  We have to be wise in telling it and remember the world is watching us, many of whom are just waiting for us to fail: to react badly, to not forgive and bear grudges, to judge .  Often times we might misstep but the opportunity to do it better or correctly is right there for the taking.

Last night around the dinner table with the writer/lead actors in the movie, we talked about stepping out in faith and pursuing the passion God puts on our hearts and I was struck with something that can only be described as awe.  It is important for E and I to be vigilant and to instruct and teach our kids the ways of the Lord, but it is up to each of our children to develop their own personal relationship with God.  These two, whom we sat across from, are such faith filled followers of dreams. Together, these two believe in what they say, reject roles that don't shine His light, and write scripts and stories to positively impact and influence others.  I want to be like them when I grow up. . .and that's exactly how the kids felt when we left dinner too.  These influential voices are the ones I need speaking into my children's lives, and we need to keep seeking opportunities that facilitate these encounters.

If you have ever loved someone who has made choices you don't particularly agree with or who has seemed to turn their back on the Lord. . .take hope in this truth: But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine." (Isaiah 43:1)  This movie has a message for everyone.  It belongs in your home library. It's available all over the place and I really think you should buy a copy, not because we were in it, but because the choices we make are the stories we tell.  Choose to tell the story that glorifies God and shines His light.  Be hopeful.  Know God's love.  Feel God's love and know no matter what you have done, He wants you to come home.