Family Challenge #3

"Don't let the floods overwhelm me, or the deep waters swallow me, or the pit of death devour me."
Psalm 69:15

Ok, I know that the verse is talking about things "deeper" than literal water dangers.  And of course, it is pleading with the Almighty God for help.

But in this world, God has placed men and women to literally and physically put this verse into action.  During this week of the Coast Guard Festival, it would be neat to have our families recognize the efforts that these people make on a consistent basis.  Have the kids draw some nice pictures, add some Bible verse, write an encouraging letter of thanksgiving for the safety provided to countless individuals, or offer whatever you feel shows the gratitude they deserve.

If you know someone personally that serves / served in the Coast Guard, go for it.  Otherwise, I am sure it would be great to walk up to a stranger with the kids and thank them personally with your gift.  If this is all too much, there are many others who give bravely for us - police officers, fire fighters, EMS, (although these individuals are showing up in a later challenge).

Just say "Thanks" and tell them that even more important than our appreciation is the appreciation of the Lord above.  There will still be time to eat that elephant ear, ride the whats-it-called spinny ride thingy, or join the 1.5 billion others to watch the parade and/or fireworks.  So make time for the challenge too.  And add your YES to the right side of the blog when you do.

Thanks!

Family Challenge #2

"Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged.  Fear your God.  I am the LORD."

Leviticus 19:32

Your second Challenge:

Find a person or couple with "a lot of earthly experience" (aka elderly) that you feel needs to be reminded that God loves them.  Feel free to define "elderly" any way you see fit. But challenge the kiddos to help think of someone in your life that needs to feel a solid reminder of the continuing love of the Lord.

Discuss with the family your method of madness this week.  Is your family a family of routine, coming up with a solid routine to reuse every week?  Or do you prefer to mix it up?  Maybe it depends on your new target.

And thanks to those who responded to the poll on the right side of the blog.  It's just neat to see.

Have fun, and check in next Sunday to see Challenge #3!

Family Challenge #1

Your first Challenge:

Find a single parent that you feel needs to be reminded that God loves them.  As a parent, I can't even imagine how difficult life would be without my wife.  I also know that there are some Knights who have / are walking through life like this.  May God bless you also with the strength and energy that you need to be the parent God intends you to be.

So, however you/your family decides to show God's love, go for it!  Cookies, pictures, notes of encouragement, small gift cards, or other cool ideas.  Write this on your weekly To Do List, calendar, forehead, or wherever you will remember it.  And if it gets forgotten, no worries.  Just tune in next week for another opportunity.  Also, notice on the right side of this blog is a survey question.  It is completely anonymous, but I kinda like to see how many people's lives are touched.

I am sure God will nudge you to help this idea grow.  So if you have any twists you would like to add, feel free to shoot me an email or whatever.  For example, how could we incorporate Family Prayer night on Tuesdays?  What other ideas are out there?  I do NOT wish for this to replace the monthly Pabama runs.  Just add a little family element to the mix.

Have fun, and check in next Sunday to see Challenge #2!

Weekly Family Pabama Challenge

All right, I need to just get this out there.  No more wasting time.

The Directions are simple.  Every week, a new mission, or small "Challenge" will be assigned.  Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to identify an individual(s) that meets the criteria.  You will then either personally, or with your family, show that person the love of Jesus through an act of kindness of your choosing, sorta just a mini Pabama Run.  This could be an anonymous note and gift card, cookies and pictures from the kids, or even a warm pie!  Or any other act that you deem worthy.  The key is - To God Be The Glory!

Not sure exactly where it will go from here.  Let's let Jesus take the wheel (hey, someone should write a song about that).  If you feel led, please include your family to make a secret drop off and make sure to cover your target in prayer.

Looking forward to hearing how God will continue to use us to be His hands and feet!

Mission #1 coming Sunday!

Prepare To Be Challenged

Searched Google for "Challenge" and these videos came up.  (Disclaimer - I have NOT seen all of these and do NOT endorse pursuing any of them).

1.  Cinnamon Challenge
2.  Warheads Challenge
3.  Hot Pepper / Ghost Pepper Challenge
4.  Cereal Challenge
5.  Cold Water Challenge
6.  Chubby Bunny Challenge
7.  Bible Verse Challenge
8.  Salt and Ice Challenge
9.  Smoothie Challenge
10.  Oatmeal Challenge
11.  Photobooth Challenge
12.  Bean Boozled Challenge
13.  Diet Coke and Mentos Challenge
14.  Pokemon Challenge
15.  Ice Bath Challenge

Many more.

Stay Tuned................