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Bethany and I were caught off guard last week when Mitchell began thinking about what he should give up for Lent.  We had not talked about it much at home, but I guess he heard Pastor Brad mention it during a sermon the previous week.  I guess he is listening more than I think he is.  Mitchell is a creative, intelligent, and passionate individual.  As with all of us, our strengths can also show as weaknesses at times.  For example, Mitchell's passion when directed appropriately is great, but can also come out in anger or being easily frustrated.  My administrative gifts can also get in the way of meaningful conversations with others when trying to complete a task.  I share all of this to remind myself that my son is growing up.  Even though, we can clash at times, I still love him dearly and the unique personality God has given him. What can at times seem to be a self-focused, authority challenging, & quirky young man can also think deeply...

OK-can I just say that God is awesome and answers prayer?  Last week, I wrote a post about not having any good ideas for families to do during Lent.  But then on Thursday, I was reminded of a couple of ideas as well as a new idea from Pastor Brad that he posted on Hesston MB facebook page. So, here are three simple ideas to use with your kids: Resurrection Eggs -Family Life has a great resource for kids called Resurrection Eggs that tell the story of Easter.  You could use these during Lent by hiding them and then telling the story for each egg.  It comes with a booklet for ideas of what to say.  You can paraphrase or read it word for word.  They are available at local Christian bookstores and you can learn more here Jesus Storybook Bible- I am planning to read through the life of Jesus with my kids from this Bible during Lent.  It is a great Bible that has Jesus as the focus of every story of the Bible.  Check it out here . Easter Tree- Tha...

A few years ago, a family at my church asked about family camps in the area.  I started looking for good resources to share with them.  I found several around the United States, but the closest ones to us were in Colorado & Missouri.  Some were connected with specific denominations and others were more generic.  I had heard several recommended, but to me the biggest obstacle was cost.  Here are a few possibilities for you: Kanakuk Horn Creek St. Louis Family Camp New Life Ranch As I think about the possibility of Family Camp, I wonder if people would be interested.  So here are a few questions for you to help me answer. What is a reasonable cost for a camp where you as a family can have fun and learn together? If Family Camp were offered, would you attend?  Why or why not? What would you like to see included at a Family Camp (schedule, activities, speaker, music)? What would be the barriers for you attending a Family Camp?  Grandp...

On Thursday, I was reading Sticky Faith again and was reminded about another option for you during the Lenten season.  Powell & Clark share some research about helping develop a heart of service and justice in our kids.  They also talk about the growing number of youth going on mission trips, but not seeing any change long term.  They suggest it is important for service and justice to "hit close to home . . . literally, thematically, personally, and relationally."  In other words, service and justice cannot be occasional events, but instead must become part of our family's lifestyle. As I reflect on Lent and the sacrifices that Jesus has done for me, it seems natural that part of our growth during Lent can be experienced as we as families serve others and/or seek justice on their behalf.  So, what can you do?  There are so many opportunities for service and justice in your community and in our world.  Check out organizations like Compassion Int...

Tonight, I am headed to Intrust Bank Arena for Winter Jam.  I am excited about some of the bands, but more excited about spending time with 2 of my kids (Mitchell & Megan).  The other two have chosen to stay with mom. Mitchell is very excited and has been looking forward to Winter Jam for months.  Skillet is one of his favorite bands.  Some of the other groups are harder and not my choice, but I am trying not to discourage his interest in them.  It is interesting how as parents our style of music can be very different than our kids.  A typical response to Mitchell is "turn it down."  But I am thankful for the many great Christian bands of different styles available today.  I can remember when Jars of Clay was pushing the envelope.  So, I am looking forward to many things about tonight so I will look past the crowds and the loudness.  Tickets are only $10 at the door and the show begins at 7 p.m.

Yesterday, I wrote a post about looking for ideas for families to do during Lent.  I am going to be trying a few things, but do not have definite plans yet.  However, as I thought about what I might do for Lent, I thought about a few ideas to share with you.  This is a great time to begin a new "habit" to help you grow in your relationship with God.  Here are a few suggestions for you during the next 40 days: You Version (on android or Apple devices) has several reading plans for Lent.  I am currently doing one suggested by Pastor Brad.  It is called 40 Days of Lent. Fasting--Have you considered giving up food, TV, facebook, etc. during the next 40 days?  Maybe you should start small and pick one day and fast from your choice. Spiritual Disciplines-There are many great books on the Spiritual Disciplines.  You could choose silence, solitude, meditation, etc. to try during Lent.  I would encourage you to pick up Good and Beautiful God by...

I have normally not given up anything for Lent.  And I have not decided for this year either.  But I wonder about how families could use Lent in their homes.  What are some ideas for how to use these 40 days to help our kids better understand Jesus and what He did for us? I am going to experiment with some ideas for Lent this year and hopefully next year I can share some helpful resources for use in the home.  If you know of someone who has already done something for families to use during family devotions or family worship, please comment below.