This experience reminded me again that you never stop being a parent. Even though the last move left Janice and I saying, 'never again', when the call came, I was compelled to respond; it's what a dad does.
At some point in our journey there will come a role reversal, when our children take on more of the caregiver role and we as parents are called to graciously allow them to help provide such care. I wonder, does that mean I get to behave like a child again!
At Valley we have been blessed to share our journey with friends who are ahead of us on the pathway. We have been able to interact and learn from those have walked through this life for a longer period of time, who are more seasoned as parents and grandparents -- this has been for us a tremendous encouragement. As I thought about all the ways you have built into our lives I realized again this another blessing of being in community together.
The Bible tells us to 'instruct one another' (Romans 15:14), to 'teach and admonish one another' (Colossians 3:16) and to 'encourage one another' (2 Corinthians 13:1). The church is more than just a place where we gather for worship and service to our Lord; it is a place where we do life together -- where we support and build up and encourage one another. In the church we are 'devoted to one another' (Romans 12:10); it is a place where we 'honor one another' (Romans 12;10).
We understand, we don't always do this perfectly for we are fallen, fallible human beings, but the friendship we share at Valley really is a gift to one another. So, in this season of our lives I want to encourage you to nurture the friendships God has given us, to continue to build into each others lives and support one another.
One of the most Christ-honoring things we can do for one another is simply to walk with each other through this season of our lives -- may we be faithful in doing just that!
Let me encourage you again to consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24)