Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly
As parents, we only want the best for our children. We want to shield them from all possible harm. (in Filipino parlance, “ni ayaw ngang padapuan ng lamok”) We begin to think, “if only we can give them everything;” “if only we can be there for them all the time.” And so, we begin to act as bodyguards. We cater to their every desire. Our hearts melt with even a whimper. WE GIVE IN… even if it means stretching ourselves out too thin. Or sometimes, (like when tantrums become unbearable), WE GIVE IN… because it is the easy way out.
In my work as a pre-school teacher, I see this pattern often. I’ve lost count of how many parents cannot believe how behaved their children are in school. For them it is MAGIC. For me, it’s as simple as laying the rules (well it’s not THAT simple) and showing them who’s the boss (without being bossy, of course). If we are not careful, our children can manipulate us. And if we keep letting them get their way, how can we teach them responsibility and accountability? How do we prepare them for the harder decisions that they have to make in life?
Just think about it…
Tall tasks, huh? Just like Peter who couldn’t see with God’s eyes, we, too, find it unfathomable why sacrifice is a part of life. It may not be easy, but then, Jesus assures us, "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet loses his soul?"
In my work as a pre-school teacher, I see this pattern often. I’ve lost count of how many parents cannot believe how behaved their children are in school. For them it is MAGIC. For me, it’s as simple as laying the rules (well it’s not THAT simple) and showing them who’s the boss (without being bossy, of course). If we are not careful, our children can manipulate us. And if we keep letting them get their way, how can we teach them responsibility and accountability? How do we prepare them for the harder decisions that they have to make in life?
Just think about it…
- If I can’t stop my kids from eating too much candy or junk food now, how can I stop them from turning to alcohol or drugs in the future?
- If I constantly allow them to miss their bed time, how can I stop them from coming home late when they grow up?
- If I do their homework for them now, how can I teach them to be honest and responsible with bigger things?
- If I let them play even when there are schoolwork or house chores to be done, how can I be sure that I am not raising a future bum?
Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow Jesus.
Tall tasks, huh? Just like Peter who couldn’t see with God’s eyes, we, too, find it unfathomable why sacrifice is a part of life. It may not be easy, but then, Jesus assures us, "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet loses his soul?"
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