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For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, (1 Peter 2:21)
People love “feel-good” buzz-words, and the phrase, “What Would Jesus Do?” is no exception. But, for my family, this expression has taken root in the hearts of my children.
Sibling squabbles are common-place and normal … just a part of life in a big family. However, even though none of us is perfect, as Romans 3:23 reminds us, I think all parents expect their children to try to generally be considerate of each other and try their best to work out differences.
It was during one of these squabbles that I talked to my oldest about Jesus as a Big Brother. Because Jesus was sinless, we know He had to be an awesome Big Brother! I can’t picture Jesus yelling, “Get out of my room!” to James. In the ensuing time since having that discussion with my oldest, I’ve had this talk with the younger two as well.
Sunday morning was a rough patch for worship, so I really talked to the kids about exactly what the Lord’s Day really is. It is not a time to talk or play with friends. It’s not a time to talk and play with each other. It’s not a time to point out what someone is wearing, or who might or might not be in attendance.
I’ve started reminding them on the way to services, in the form of an interactive “game show,” what the “rules” are for how we behave in worship and in the church building. In addition, I reminded them about manners and saying, “Yes, Sir” and “No, Ma’am” as well as going out of your comfort zone and talking to older people (shaking hands, inquiring after well-being, etc.).
Well, you should have seen the difference! When we arrived at evening services, it was like the UN had descended! They fanned out, hands out like branches, “working” the room and shaking hands! The seniors were so impressed and the kids felt so good about themselves when they saw the difference their behavior made in the lives of others.
This has translated itself into better behavior toward each other. They realized that they had behaved as Jesus would, and so they can do the same with each other.
Homeschool was a joy this morning! The children complimented each other on their work, cooperated with each other, were very respectful of the silence another might need for his or her work – it was truly a beautiful sight.
Each time, I would recognize their efforts and praise them by saying that’s what Jesus would do, and it wasn’t just a “sound bite” – it was really reflective of their efforts to be Christ-like and, like Sunday evening, you could see how the words really tied into their self-esteem.
Photo credit: Stock Xchng
