December 27, 2007
READ: Joshua 4:1-9
These stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever. Joshua 4:7
In her book The Shelter of Each Other, Mary Pipher gives advice on rebuilding troubled families. She explores how todays children sometimes overuse TV and video games to the exclusion of informal instruction received from extended family.
She gives an example of a family reunion where the youngsters are given a video to watch in the back room so the adults can talk undisturbed. Dr. Pipher believes this diversion actually deprives kids. Children need to mix with the older generation so they can hear the stories of aunts, uncles, grandparents, and parents. This helps them learn from those who have gone before them.
The Old Testament places a high value on children being taught their spiritual heritage. After God parted the waters of the Jordan River, Joshua was instructed to take 12 stones from the river to create a memorial for future generations. When your children ask . . . What do these stones mean to you? then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off. . . . And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever (Josh. 4:6-7).
We need spiritual interaction between generations. Remember, Bible stories are often family stories. And our children need them and us.
**Children need to mix with the older generation so they can hear the stories of aunts, uncles, grandparents, and parents. This helps them learn from those who have gone before them.**
Truer words were never spoken. When I was young and growing up, I loved to listen to the ‘grown-ups’ talk about everything. I learned so much from these times. Of course, we didn’t have the things the kids have today but I wouldn’t swap the things I learned for the things these young folks are learning today! Sometimes I wish we could turn the clock back just a little for the young folks!
Thank you for today’s message, Mr. Mayor!