The other day I saw an article about a rookie police officer that recently graduated from the police academy. His parents standing by his side. All three were in uniform. His father and mother both on the department for over 20 years. I remember when his mother was pregnant with this child, her first, and now they were pinning on his badge as he followed in their footsteps.
Last month a new class graduated from the police academy. It was amazing to see once again how many parents pinned badges on their children. You heard the all familiar last names of children whose parent[s] have served many years.
This is the life that the child has lived. Watching a parent putting on a uniform, talking about life as a police officer, demonstrating loyalty to "serve and protect." They have lived the life of waiting for a parent on a holiday they had to work or missing a special occasion due to a mandatory assignment.
Many of these children come from families where both parents serve. These children have spent many years living through long days, odd shifts, strange assignments. Some have missed a parent hugging them close during a scary time of a hurricane. They have missed a parent tucking them in at night. They have missed a parent at field trips, school plays or an award ceremony. Likewise, many have been in the comfort of an aunt or grandparent in their parent's absence, yet they have chosen the very same career.
While they miss their parents, they are relieved when they see them walk in the door. They have heard years of stories both good and bad. Many will say "tell me again mommy how you found that lost kid." It is the example and satisfaction of serving that keeps bringing them back to their parent's career.
Moses was charged with leading the Israelites out of Egypt. There was some resistance, grumbling, and wanting other options, yet Moses led on. When Moses died, Joshua took over [Joshua 1:1-2]. He led the people until his death. God chose these godly leaders so that the people would follow the Lord. The Israelites were to honor God and walk with him.
The parents were to be leaders and examples to the children. They were to teach the next generation to follow the Lord [Deuteronomy 6:7-9]. These children were to become the generation that taught the next generation after their parents passed on.
Unfortunately, and sadly, after Joshua died, there were some that did not even know the Lord much less follow Him.
As parents, it is incumbent on us to raise that next generation....a generation that not only loves the Lord but desires to serve Him.
Our children are watching our example. If we don't spend time in God's Word-they're watching, if we look bored in church and fidget-they're watching, if we don't serve in church-they're watching.
As society stretches boundaries further and further, we must be the example and make a Christian life desirable so that our children will want to be the next generation that honors and serves God.
Joshua son of Nun, servant of the Lord died at the age of 110...After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel. Joshua 2:8-10
