Some kids leave lasting imprints on their teachers. Taylor was one that left her imprint on me. This is from April 24, 2007.
I'm going to miss Taylor. A young lady in our soon to graduated class of seniors, Taylor has been a blessing in my life since she came to our school in eighth grade. Through my Bible classes and her Girl Scout activities, which incorporated our Honduras charity, Taylor and I have grown close in the past five years. Parenting is a daunting challenge in this generation but Taylor and her freshman brother, Luke, have validated the child rearing skills of their mom and dad. Last week, Taylor approached me in the hallway and told me she was giving me a graduation gift. Didn't it used to be the other way around? But there was a unique twist to her news: the present is to be a gift card and I can pick out the business it originates from. WOW! Immediately, I became anxious and torn. Should it be for refreshment (Starbucks) or food (Chili's)? I might like reading material (Borders) or a new released movie (Hollywood Video). Maybe I could use something from a clothing store (JC Penney's) or a sporting goods (Academy). I always need practical items, so Wal-Mart is good, but not very festive. Whew! I have some soul searching ahead of me!
What would you ask for if you were promised anything your heart desired? Solomon was given that option once by the Lord soon after he became Israel's third monarch. You know the story. In 1st Kings 3, the son of David and Bathsheba merely requested a discerning heart to guide his people. The Lord was so overjoyed with his response that he threw untold wealth into the prize package along with wisdom. Solomon asked for what he needed and had an unbelievable bonus added to the mix. I don't think wisdom precludes wealth, certainly not in this century, but the Lord linked the two for the newly crowned king. We ask for stuff rather than the ability to use it to God's glory. I wish there was a gift card for discernment; Wise R' Us! That's one franchise yet to be marketed so I'm back to my dilemma. I'm open to suggestions!
Applicable quote of the day:
"Wisdom consists of the anticipation of consequences."
Norman Cousins
God bless,
Steve
Luke 18:1
www.hawleybooks.com
E-mail me at steve@hawleybooks.com
2 comments:
Steve, thanks for stopping by my blog. I had to comment because I'm a journal girl- I love reading them as much as writing in them! I'm captivated by your adventures in teaching. What a gift to be able to mold young minds to the shape of our Lord! I teach Sunday School for a very small church so I get a tiny glimpse of what it must be like for you. All I can think- this must be what it's like for God when we have our quiet times with Him. So much discovery and growing! Have a blessed week, Sir.
What a wonderful gesture!
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