I shared some thoughts on my Instagram story earlier this week that really seemed to resonate – especially with those of you who have, or serve, the littlest kids among us.
Let me share a bit of back story
Last week, I shared some printables and resources for making St. Patrick’s Day meaningful – and how to teach kids about the power of the Trinity.
I had EVERY intention of using those resources with my own preschooler – making St. Patrick’s Day impactful – and about so much more than leprechauns and green.
But then, St. Patrick’s Day actually came – and can I be honest with you?
We didn’t do anything theological or spiritual.
In fact, all we did to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day was the fun stuff (and even that I had nothing to do with!)
My awesome husband made us green pancakes & eggs before we all headed to work and daycare, and blasted a few Irish tunes.
It was really fun (and yummy!)
But can I be real?
I felt guilty about that.
I run a website that equips parents to do exactly what I DID NOT do on St. Patrick’s Day – take everyday moments and make them meaningful in our faith journey.
As I sat reflecting later that day, I was reminded of an idea from the late Eugene Peterson.
Discipleship, is “a long obedience in the same direction.”
Eugene peterson
What that means is everyday doesn’t have to be a big occasion.
It’s okay if every day isn’t a big opportunity.
In fact, I’m coming to discover that Jesus shows up in the small moments – before bed, while we play, and sitting around the kitchen table, yes even eating green pancakes!
In this season, how can you encourage families – your own and those you serve – that discipleship can happen in everyday moments, not just big celebrations, planned devotional times and “family worship moments?”
While I believe in those things, I also believe we need to equip and empower families to find Jesus in the small moments.
When we are intentional in the small moments – looking for little windows to disciple – God can do big things in the lives of our families.
In a similar moment of frustration to the one I experienced this week, I created A Family Guide to Abide.
Parents & families in your church (even your own!) may be finding themselves overwhelmed with devotional plans & other options for discipleship.
This simple, free guide for families helps take the stress out of family devotional times at home. This Family Guide to Abide uses the principle of John 15:4 – “Abide in me” – to encourage families to spend time in God’s presence without a formal ‘devotional plan.’
It’s based around an acronym for the word “ABIDE.” Families will learn to ASK, hear the BIBLE, INVESTIGATE where God is, DWELL in His presence, and have EVERYONE participate.
have heard so much positive feedback on this guide for families and those who’ve used it.
In this chaotic season for so many families – with so many changes STILL happening – why not reach out, let them know you’re in their corner & share this Guide to Abide?
I guarantee it will be an encouragement to them, and a simple tool to use to foster intentional discipleship.
And hey – don’t forget, sometimes what we really need is a dance party & some green pancakes.