Friday; October 12

Last weekend our granddaughters came to visit us for the weekend.  At one point we went down to the park to play on the playground, but the woods became too much of a temptation for them and they decided we needed to go on “an adventure”.  As we tromped through the woods they were convinced that we were on a some great quest.  They thought they found a fox den and were convinced that the skeleton we discovered was that of a dinosaur.  During the hike they kept looking for the next new thing and once the adventure was done they were thrilled at the trek we had taken.  On the other hand, what I experienced was an unknown course through narrow trees and holly leaves that scratched us.  I saw baggies with the residue of a “leafy green substance” littering the ground and the skeleton I saw resembled a squirrel or, at best, a fox.  I found spider webs, slippery logs and bugs.  Yes, we were in the same place – the difference was perspective. 
I hope our granddaughters will remember our adventure fondly, but I will take something else away from this.   At one point I remember recalling that when I was eight I would have been intrigued by the adventure, but at 58 I just saw the dangers.  As I reflect on this it got me to thinking about life – especially life in a church.  Young people are typically full for vigor and excitement while those of us who have been around the block a time or two are more cautious (and, often, more annoyed) of any adventure.  Young people tend to be out front dragging us into uncharted territory while we are not wanting to lift the anchor that holds us to our familiar territory.  While we should be wise in heading off into new areas, we must also remember Paul’s caution, “... do not quench the Spirit ...” (I Thessalonians 5:19).  What could happen in our churches if we blended the excitement of youth with the wisdom of age?  It really could turn into an adventure!
Think About It!

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