Passing on the Mantle

Last night we had our first parent teacher meeting of the year. To say I was blessed is an understatement. At the end of our meeting, the parents gathered around and prayed over us as staff. As I left the room, I bumped into my co-teacher and said, "We're spoiled teachers." She heartily agreed. 

To be part of an organization like a Christian school that resolutely seeks to impact and inspire the next generation for Christ, is one of my greatest joys in life. And I know we are in it together. Although it is hard at times, there is still a remnant on earth furthering the Kingdom of Christ as they wait for His return.

This morning I stumbled upon the chapter in 1 Chronicles where David is passing on instruction, vision, and blessing to his son Solomon. He begins by gathering all the princes, captains, and stewards of the kingdom together and then proceeds to explain that he himself had desired to build a house for the Lord. However, since he was a man of war, God was choosing his son Solomon instead. Then he turns to Solomon and begins speaking:

"And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it." (1 Chronicles 28:9-10)

As I read these words, I was deeply impressed and my heart leaped a little because I felt it. I felt the passion in David's heart as he passed on his last instructions to his son. I felt his deep desire to see Solomon faithfully move on in the Kingdom of God. And I realized that that is what I and all the parents at that meeting are living for. We pour out our hearts and souls so that the next generation can also know Jesus and what it means to live for him. We teach them Biblical tools and model godly responses. We give them principles and watch as they wrestle with good and evil. We pray again and again as we see them struggle between the Light and darkness. And ultimately we keep on. Why? Because the Kingdom is still moving and there are still men and women needed to join its forces. Souls are still dying without hope and the Gospel must be preached. The world is in dire need of humble, Holy Spirit- dependent individuals who will love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength and carry His hope to the uttermost parts of the earth. 

And so we press on. Preparing for the next generation just like David did as he accumulated supplies for Solomon's use. We pray for the children in our care just like he did for his son to be faithful. And ultimately, we walk with the God who knows our children inside and out and has a special calling for each one.