Thursday, January 5, 2012

Another Fine Art

One couple recently introduced their three-year-old daughter to the 'fine art' of dishwashing. She so enjoyed her time at the sink. It was regarded as quality playtime.

On sharing this news with other parents, some were shocked at a three-year-old washing dishes - and appearing to enjoy it. Apparently, other pre-schoolers had wanted to help in their kitchens but were dissuaded by their parents.

"How strange," commented the couple, "and then when the children become teenagers and no longer desire to clean plates, parents insist that they do!"

Of course, the issue is not simply about washing dishes. Rather, it has to do with loving, honouring and obeying God. As children love, honour and obey their parents, they are showing respect for God, and as they do that they can discover meaning and purpose in their lives.

We are living in a day when teen despair and teenage suicide has become an increasingly disturbing reality. This is becoming more and more a reality where I work and serve. Many young people have not found a reason for living, and this can give rise to rebellion and anger.

God has spoken about turning the hearts of fathers to their children and those who are disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous. Has there ever been a time in our society when this has been more needed?

One remarkable characteristic and quality of Jesus was that he was obedient to Mary and Joseph during his formative years. Even though Jesus knew who he was, he is going to set the example for young people to follow, by being subject to his earthly parents, and Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favour with God and men.

God appreciates good behaviour. Men appreciate good behaviour.

This is becoming another 'fine art'.

Sandy Shaw

Sandy Shaw is Pastor of Nairn Christian Fellowship, Chaplain at Inverness Prison, and Nairn Academy, and serves on The Children's Panel in Scotland, and has travelled extensively over these past years teaching, speaking, in America, Canada, South Africa, Australia, making 12 visits to Israel conducting Tours and Pilgrimages, and most recently in Uganda and Kenya, ministering at Pastors and Leaders Seminars, in the poor areas surrounding Kampala, Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu.

No comments:

Post a Comment