TITLE: My New Address By Ruth Tredway 01/19/12 |
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Blog. That word terrifies me. It is a test. I want to tell God I’m too old for this, that blogging is for younger folks. He gently prods me in that direction anyway.
What if I were going to do a blog? Why do I need one? The writing community says it’s a good place to start building your platform for future publication. That doesn’t motivate me. What if I can’t think of anything to say? Would anyone read it?
Only a few months ago, the members of the church that meets in our home shared their hearts. They are mostly mid twenties to early thirties. Their life stages are all slightly different, but their heart cry was identical. For a little bit, I could see behind the façade of confidence and competence they wear with such grace.
“We get together and share our struggles,” one said, “and we encourage each other. But we’re all at the same stage of life. Sometimes we’re just pooling our ignorance and frustration.”
“Yeah, some things are so vague,” said a single woman in her late 20’s. “I’m a believer, and I want to honor the Lord in my personal relationships, and in modesty and gentleness of spirit. But I’m not really sure what that looks like.”
The mother of a two-year-old spoke up, “Being a mom is way more challenging than teaching a class. This child is my responsibility all the time. I love her dearly, but sometimes I just don’t know how to handle her.”
A new husband of only a few months commented, “When I was a bachelor, life was pretty simple. But now we have a color-coordinated kitchen (which I love), and there are girly things on the bathroom cabinet. This is not the same as living with a bunch of guys.” He dodges as she jabs him with her elbow.
“I’ve been single for several years, living on my own, doing what I like when I want to,” said the young bride. “Now that we’re married, that doesn’t always work. I have to consider what’s best for us.”
Where was I in all this conversation? Listening. Carrying on an internal dialogue with my Lord. “Father, I don’t know where I fit with these precious people who are sharing life together with us. Remember, there was a time when anyone over 30 was ancient and couldn’t be trusted. Do they really want to know what I think about their struggles?”
The conversation shifted to talking about what was missing in their peer relationships.
“Sometimes I need a mentor, someone to teach me how to do those things that will honor Him.”
“It doesn’t have to be anything formal and planned. Something as simple as preparing a meal together, and casual conversation with an older woman.”
“Or even working in the garden, and learning how to care for the harvest.”
“I need an older person’s perspective on my child, and ideas on how to discipline without destroying her spirit.”
The couple said they were watching those who had families established, learning from them the importance of family prayer and Bible reading, and sharing responsibilities.
The Lord reminded me what He said in Titus 2, “Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. (Titus 2:3-5, NASB)
“Okay, Father, I’m beginning to understand. These young people are asking for the older ones to come alongside, share life with them. To be family for each other.
“But,” I continued the conversation with my Lord, “they have busy schedules, and so do I. When could we work in more time together? We don’t even like to do the same things. How can I be obedient to You in helping them?”
Blog. That word challenges me – and it terrifies me. It is a test. And it is a ministry. It’s available 24/7. We don’t need a free night in the calendar. Maybe this will work. I just need to figure out how to get it done. I think I need a mentor, someone younger to show the way.
It looks like I’ll be moving into the blogosphere soon. I’m not sure of the address yet, but I’ll keep you posted. I’d love to meet you there, any time.
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