Key Scripture:

Ecclesiastes 3:4a – “A time to weep, and a time to laugh;”

Devotional:

As parents we experience times of sadness, either from our kid’s pain or our own.  Like Pastor Joby says, “there is no pain like kid pain.” It is in these times of sadness that we find an opportunity to embrace vulnerability, draw closer to our kids, and offer comfort and support.  God reminds us that we will experience pain in this world.  Romans 5:3-5 ^{3 “}Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, ⁴ and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, ⁵ and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us”.

As a father, I often want to look for ways to fix the pain or want vengeance if the pain is caused by others. As seasons go, there is a time for that, but often we just need to comfort our kids and support them through the pain they are experiencing.  We can find solace in knowing that God walks alongside us, providing strength and comfort in the midst of our struggles.

There are moments of profound joy and laughter that come as we raise our children as well.  Their innocent laughter fills our hearts with warmth and gladness. As parents we have the privilege of sharing laughter with our kids and  to create great memories within our homes. I think back to the joy and laughter they had as they ran out of their rooms on Christmas morning.  Headed right to our bed, jumping on it with such anticipation for the morning.  Or the game nights where we laughed until we cried.  

I want our kids to look back on their childhood and remember all the fun memories and fun things we did together and know that Christ was at the center of it all. 

Questions for reflection:

Questions for reflection:

• Think of a time when you tried to shield your child from pain. What can you do to help your child lean into the Lord in times of pain and sadness?
• Consider the challenges of parenting and moments of joy. How can you intentionally create a home for laughter and celebration while also being present in tough moments?