Not only Fun

Romans 8:28-30 (NRSV)
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.

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Jesus said, "Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires; God will satisfy them fully."
- Matthew 5:6 (TEV)

Haven't you heard other parents (and probably yourself) saying to children, "Let's try it...it will be fun". Yep, and maybe that trip to the first day of school will be fun...or maybe not.
We all enjoy having fun on trips, watching a good movie with buttered popcorn, and playing a good game of tennis, etc. It's ok to have fun. But when having fun is the only motivator for all activities, there will be a letdown at some time. I'm sure I've said that to my own children when they were growing up, but I'll be careful with these grandchildren. The value of a book, school, an activity, a Sunday School class should not be measured by "fun" only.
The thrill of discovery, excitement of accomplishments and bonds of friendship indeed are precious in our lives and we can teach our children to appreciate all of life.

Activity:
1, At the dinner table or in the car, share a recent experience you have had with your child. It may have been the excitement of seeing the leaves change color in your back yard, or laughing when you heard your young child say a new word...a little differently from the norm. My grandson and granddaughter say or do something hilarious each day while they are getting their baths.
2. Play "popcorn" and think of as many things that happened in the day that made you feel proud, show love, find a new way to teach a concept to a class, praise God with a song, etc.
3. Get some balloons and each person (depending on age) to blow up the ballon until it pops or blow it up and try to pop it by sitting on it. The blowing up of the balloon is work and difficult for some. It takes time and everyone is cheering and laughing while watching each other. It's the excitement and the journey along the way that may be "fun" and not the destination itself when the balloon pops.

Let's work hard at teaching our kids different ways to enjoy life...not just having "fun" but the events, and even the work along the way can be enjoyable.

Prayer: Lord, help us to think about what You want us to do to stay happy. Help us to always praise your name in all we do.

Forgiven Tag

Colossians 3:11-17 (NRSV)
"In that renewal there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all!

As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do
everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him"

One of the favorite games during our children's music ministry time is "Forgiven Tag". Even the little guys who may be a bit reluctant to participate in choir time, will come in anticipation of our "gym time". We always have games that focus on Bibilical concepts and themes that ring throughout our dramas, songs, choirchimes and bells.
"Forgiven Tag" is one such game where one person is "it" and chases others in the group around the room. He/she tags people while running around. When tagged, you must stop and freeze in your spot. The others running around the room can "untag" the frozen person and say, "you are forgiven" and the person is free to run again.
Gather the neighbors, adults and children, and play this game on a pleasant fall evening. It's really a blast.

We are called each day to forgive others.

1. Children, tweens and adults can play the game outside or in a large room or gym.
2. At your dinner table, ask each person if they needed to forgive someone today. You may be surprised at how many respsonses you'll get.
3. Talk about the word "harmony" and sing a song together. If you can sing a simple song like JESUS LOVES ME and add harmony that would be great. If you can't sing harmony, sing any song together or listen to a recording of A family favorite and listen for harmony within the song.

Above all, pray that harmony with love and forgivness will always dwell in your home. Play "Forgiven Tag" each day in your heart.