And, He walks with me and . . .

At this time of year I am reminded of the passage Paul wrote to the Philippians. “I press on . . . ” Parents, grandparents and summer time babysitters are echoing those words every day. Or maybe the words were more like this; “Lord help me!”. For some, it’s been a long summer. Kids to take care of, children to take here, there and anywhere.
As with each summer, two things have happened with the wonderful care givers this time of year provides. They began the summer joining in with the children’s wonderful activities and then progressed to move time-consuming activities that didn’t take any energy on our part but wore out those darling little children. Time consuming walks in the park where you sat on the bench and the little ones put out lots of energy.
Just so you know, the end is in sight. This time next week, all that time will be again yours to discover. But face it, you will miss them. They will never be that age again. Their interests will change and when next year comes around, it will be a totally new experience for all of you. Wasn’t it fun? Ok, wasn’t it long? You will one day look back on this time with fondness. And yes, it’s all part of your life cycle. A wonderful part, an enjoyable part, a tiring part, but an unforgettable part all the same.
These few weeks are not part of history but part of memories. Just think of your wards and what they will remember about this past summer. I’m sure that it was not all good, but it was with you, when you could. And yes, there were no - thank you, without direct comments from the parent. The wonderful part of this is the beauty of it is never noticed at the time. For in those days and weeks, you have had the opportunity to teach your children, grandchildren many things the classroom doesn’t always convey. You taught them about life and walked with them on the journey side by side.
In this time you will have taught through examples the important life lessons you learned in your time. If all has gone well, there will have been times to go for that walk. Even time to chat and talk about when you were their age. Stories of summer vacations, school teachers you grew to hate, first kisses and friends you acquired long ago who have been your friend all these years.
A long time ago, I read this line. “Happiness in life is not a destination but a journey.” We are all on our own journey. A travel through time where we experience many turns, ups and downs, and life changing experiences we never wish on anyone. But we have all made it to today have we not? One day we will make that last day. We will walk the last step. Breathe the last breath. In the moment before our faith will be sight, our lives will flash before us and . . . and . . . and we will remember this past summer and be glad we made the time for it.
Enjoy the last few days of this summer of 2008. And don’t just take the children for a walk on your own. Wouldn’t be better to invite Jesus along with you? After all, isn’t He the friend you acquired long ago? And tell the children about Him, and you and your walk together with Him through all these wonderful years. We all need to walk with Jesus.
Something to think about.
Rob