So, here is a confession that leads to an encouragement. This morning I got up at 5:55, which is a few minutes before my 16-year-old son asked me to wake him (we have recently taken away their phones when they are supposed to be sleeping), and continued my morning routine which includes reading the Proverb of the day to my girls, and going for a quick run.
When I returned from my run, I made a point to hug my wife, my 14-year-old daughter (11year old is normally asleep, again), and then my son – who was brushing his teeth at the time. I told each of them “Good Morning.” I was thinking through those steps to each of my ‘people’ that it is a good thing to greet each of them, since for the last few weeks, MY routine has kept me from face to face interaction with them in the morning (unless there is a problem).
My son responded with, “what was that?”
I realized, much to my chagrin, I’ve developed a routine that takes me away from my family as they are getting ready for the day… as they are getting ready to go out into the world and represent our family, and Jesus. As the leader of my house I should be guiding them in love and hospitality so that they can portray these same things to the kids around them. I have the opportunity to do this, but my routine has focused me on getting me ready. It’s done that well, so how about I pour into them a little, in order that they might be filled enough to pour into the kids around them today.
Deuteronomy 6:7, “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”
Morning routines are important. I want to encourage you, to include your children in your morning, start their day right!
“WE ARE MEN OF ACTION…”
So, Dad… I want to challenge you! Are your kids a part of your morning routine? Think through how you can make that a yes, if it’s not already, and engage that routine for the next 5 business days. If the timing of your work doesn’t allow for your children to be part of your morning, discover a way to pour into them during that time. (i.e. leave them encouraging notes, scripture to boost their spirits, is it possible to face-time? Lead them from the beginning of the day!
You can do it! Build your morning routine around building up your kids, and your wife!