Friday, January 11, 2008

"Train Up A Child In The Way They Should Go"

Hello All,

There are moments in a Father's life that overwhelm him with joy. For example, when my children have asked Jesus into their hearts, or when they have been kind to each other. These are ultimate, biblical, values upon which their eternitys will be fixed.

This morning though was the transference of anoter type of moment.


Some things aren't specifically taught in the Bible, so when a child receives instruction toward right things in the world, it can be absolutely gratifying. For example, when I was a boy, I was taught to hate the San Francisco Giants by my Father, who is a die-hard Los Angeles Dodgers fan. To this day, even though I find baseball incredibly in need of a 20th century update, I still root for the Los Angeles Dodgers and pray for baseball ruin to befall the Giants! This is a value that I will pass on to my children.

On that same level, I observed the following conversation today.

Frank: Kids, because you were so good, we are going to Blockbuster tonight to see about renting 101 Dalmatians.

Kids: (Frenetic Applause and excitement bursts forth!)

Frank: Now, kids, remember last time we went. Sometimes the store doesn't have the movie we want. So, if not, we'll just rent another one, o.k.?

Renae: If it's not there, we could watch Mac v. P.C.

Caleb: Yeah, we could watch that.

Frank: Mac v. P.C. huh?

Editors Note: (The kids are referring to these videos here.)

Frank: (Pensively in thought...) Kids, which would you want: A Mac or a P.C.?

Lizzie: (Hand in the air, with much gusto!) MAC! (emphatic!)

Caleb: Yeah, I hate P.C.!

I turn to face my children, a tear falling from my eye, knowing that I have taught them to discern, at least in this instance, the difference between right and wrong, good and evil!

Now, if they can just hate the Giants...

Blessings...To Our Friends,
Frank Sanchez

7 comments:

jeff.schaefer said...

Yes, that is awesome! I am doing the samething with my family as well.

Frank And Lela said...

Jeff,

Hold the line brother! Don't give up. I am working on some of my PC family that I have been trying to convert for years. I feel like I am on the threshold!

Blessings,
F.S.

Carrie Allen said...

you have taught your children well...job completed.

Frank And Lela said...

Carrie,

Well, not completed...when their children own Macbooks, iPods and iPhones, I will know that I have been a success!

Blessings,
F.S.

blythe said...

when your children own all the things...i'll have to find a way to get on staff at KC with such a luxurious salary..!

ha.

i bet you get shocked/outraged responses from people who can't stand pastors living comfortably, hm?

Frank And Lela said...

Blythe,

We may not live very comfortably, but at least we have Apple equipment!

Responded to on a Mac,
F.S.

Cowen Family said...

How I needed a good laugh. Now how come we did not go through pre-child rearing counseling with you? Now...we know! Stick just to marriage Frank...Lela, what's your opinion? HeHe