Year of Discipleship
Just thought I'd share an update on my year of discipleship with my son, Parker. Here are some early observations. I'm convinced that the consistent time we spend together every week in our Father/Son Meetings (FSM) is even more important than what we talk about. I definitely have a plan. And we're talking about great stuff--God, life, and growing up. But even if Parker doesn't remember everything we talked about, he'll remember that we hung out every week. That is huge for Parker because I think quality time is one of his love languages. By the way, if you haven't read The Five Love Languages of Children by Dr. Gary Chapman I'd recommend it.
So much of parenting comes back to two simple principles: spending quality time together and really listening to their hearts.
As part of the spiritual challenge, we're reading through the New Testament together. We read II Timothy this week. I basically have him underline verses as he reads and then we talk about them. I basically ask him: why did you underline that verse? And that simple approach is a catalyst for some amazing conversations! I'm continually amazed at the things he says and thinks! The word education means "to draw out." Instead of me just "teaching" him or trying to "cram things in," I want to hear what he's thinking.
Gotta say I love the Bible. It seems like every week we're reading stuff that touches on all the issues we need to discuss!
So much of parenting comes back to two simple principles: spending quality time together and really listening to their hearts.
As part of the spiritual challenge, we're reading through the New Testament together. We read II Timothy this week. I basically have him underline verses as he reads and then we talk about them. I basically ask him: why did you underline that verse? And that simple approach is a catalyst for some amazing conversations! I'm continually amazed at the things he says and thinks! The word education means "to draw out." Instead of me just "teaching" him or trying to "cram things in," I want to hear what he's thinking.
Gotta say I love the Bible. It seems like every week we're reading stuff that touches on all the issues we need to discuss!
11 Comments:
Mark,
Thanks for sharing your FSM moments and insights. My mentor practiced this with his son who later in life told him those were the most important conversations he ever had with his Dad.
I am beginning this with my son in the coming months, but I need to adapt it some for a 6-year old!
Lead on, brother...
Awesome legacy you are leaving for your son, and all of us watching you!
set the bar high.
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Have you ever thought about monetizing your blog? I'd like to sponsor you. I run a website design and development company that specializes in staff-controlled websites for churches. You and I share a similar audience of church leaders, so I thought it might be advantageous.
Just a thought.
scott@updatablechurch.com
For those of us who are looking to parent in the near future this stuff is gold! Thanks Pastor Mark!
thanks for keeping us in the loop mark...i've been challenged by you and "men's fraternity" to really establish some ceremonial moments in my son's life. we begin in january and that will lead us on a 7 month journey together as my son approaches 13 years old. we're going to cap it off with a meal at fogo, a special gift from me to him - (a manly gift that will serve as a momento), and some powerful imparting words from key men in his life up to that point...
please keep the updates coming.
Mark, a friend recently turned me on to your blog, this is the second time I have been to your site and I gotta say......wow. This entry in particular is really just great. I am 27 with three boys 5, 3, 20m and this is perfect encouragement for me. Thank You. How old is your son? Keep it up bro.
Mark- just ran across your blog and the idea of FSM is incredible. As I read this post God impressed on my heart how important it will be for me as my daughter to do this same thing. She is two now, but thanks for challenging me and helping me see a practical way for me to lead as a father and spiritual leader.
http://dhalk.wordpress.com - this is my regular blog, the one I posted from is my parent info blog for Youth ministry
Mark,
Thanks for sharing and inspiring.
My son Noah sounds similar to Parker and I bet he has the same love language. I'm gonna get that book.
I read In A Pit With A Lion... and LOVED it.
Thank you!
--Jason
Mark,
Have you read Raising Modern-Day Knights? I highly recommend it to anyone, it introduces you the importance of Manhood and celebration ceremonies in your son's life.
BrentD
Brent,
I love Raising a Modern-Day Knight--definitely pulled lots of ideas from it!
Mark
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