The Days Are Coming...

The scripture goes "The days are coming when..." and sometimes Jesus says, "and they are already here." Well the days are coming and they are here for this pastor and parent. We knew they would be coming,the days when sports would play a significant role in our family as the kids got older and more involved. But we have found that with an almost 10 and 8 year old (we have a few years yet for the 3 year old) they are here. Already there are tournaments and practices that are running into conflict with church activities including Sunday morning.

In 11 years in ministry my policy had always been that we need to send the appropriate message when it comes to our spiritual commitment to God, when held up against other commitments. This is never more evident when confirmation for teenagers rolls around, and no matter what day of the week or what time was chosen to meet, someone was going to have a conflict with a sport or other group that also demanded their time. Many times I came under criticism for not being flexible enough because there were consequences if a player missed a practice. My response was (and still is to a degree), that church and especially confirmation was equally important. Why should I be any different in my expectations than any other coach? I have since softened that stance a bit, to say I will meet you half way if you and your coach are willing to do the same. Most coaches and parents are, unfortunately some are not.

But now, I find myself dealing with conflicting schedules when it comes to my kids sports and other involvement, and Sunday morning, let alone other church activities. I was not prepared for this yet. I thought I had at least 2 more years. Not so! So what are we to do?

I find myself having to practice what I have preached, and it is not easy. But as a pastor, as well as a Christian, I am called to emphasize that if comes down to having to make a choice, God takes precedence. That doesn't mean no Sunday games completely, nor does it mean, that we are going to completely pull our kids out of such activities. But it does mean that not only do we have to make careful choices when it comes to setting our priorities, we also have to do it in a way that models a good example for our kids. An example that offers balance, yet at the same time, emphasizes that our commitment to Christ is going to shape every decision that we make. But it is shaped in such a way that hopefully models commitment, with grace, and preserves the dignity of everyone.

Pray for us, as we pray for all who find themselves caught in the middle of balancing priorities in life.