I remember where I was - Orlando around 20 years ago. I hailed a taxi to get to the airport. As I hopped in, the cab driver welcomed me and a few minutes later said, "There's something different about you? What is it?" Hmmmmmm...my heart jumped alittle....I know what is....but, do I really go there?
Heart racing - I decided to go for it. "In one word - Jesus. That joy you see isn't because my life is perfect - far from it - but I have a hope and peace from my Lord and Savior. Do you have Jesus?" He did not. He did not accept Jesus on this cab ride and I wonder often if he has opened his heart.
As we are struggling with raising a young lady in today's culture. I keep being reminded of this day. The countless prayers I've said praying that she would fit in, that she would be surrounded by friends, that she would participate in the "right" activities. Only to be reminded that prayer is not only dangerous - but not the desire of my heart.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Romans 12:2 NIV
I don't want her to look like the world. I don't want her to make poor decisions to be a part of the "group".
I don't want her to be excluded or lonely - but if being excluded means she is standing up for her values - so be it.
I want her to shine. I want her to be a walking billboard for the joy that comes from Christ. I want her to look different. I want people to see something unique in her. I want them to ask her why she smiles so much.
I still want her to have friends and enjoy being young. But, I believe the Lord is preparing another girl's (or several girl's) heart to be that friend. Friends that can stand for Jesus. Now, more than ever, our next generation can not be sent off into this cruel world without looking different. Our world has no hope if they look just like everyone else.
So, she may not be the most popular....she may not be the coolest...she may not be the most talkative. But, I will no longer pray that you "fit in".
May you be loyal, may you be kind, may you listen more than you talk, may you be respectful, may you be modest, may you be generous, may you be giving, may you be joyful. And...above all...may you be a light for Jesus. May those around you know that your life is a reflection of your Lord and Savior. That it is difficult to not be a part of the crowd. It may even be lonely sometimes - but may the Lord comfort you in those times and be preparing the hearts of those around you to be bold in their faith.
Lord,
I am burdened for what our children face today. The struggles they face are multiplied by technology and a desire to get as many "likes" as we can. Help me to be a good example for her. Help me to know when to step in and when to back off. Help us to be bold in our faith. Help us to be trustworthy, encouraging and faithful friends. Help us to know that not everyone has to be part of our inner circle - but we show love and kindness to all. Help our lives to look different than society. No matter your age that is not always easy. Thank you for the gift of being a mom.
Amen
