Simply Praiseworthy!

This past week, ds 1 was invited to go to Los Angeles for a Student Youth Leader Conference. He was asked to go by our Youth Pastor because he leads worship for Middle School and plays in the worship band for High School youth. His excitement was unbelievable.

When I look at him, I am often reminded of a little boy sitting on a front pew of a "traditional" church at the age of 4 and lifting his hands to praise God. Not wanting anyone to judge him...and being "far too worried about what people think"...I said, "not here". I have regretted that day for the rest of my years. There he was, open to worship, uninhibited and there I was standing in the way and NOT setting the example that I should have.

In some ways, he has come full circle. We are now in a place where worship is what each person needs it to be. It's open and honest. He is part of leading people in it...I am SO glad. He makes me proud!

Then...last night, I was with DSs 2, 3, and 4 in Tampa after a day at the soccer fields and we were on our way home when DS 2 said, "I wonder if there is anywhere around here that has Saturday Night Church?" My Mother told him she wasn't sure.

He and DS 3 are staying up in Tampa because there is a more tournament play today. He knew he was going to miss church.

My thought? Wow! At 16 or 17, even though I was REALLY involved in church, I don't think I would have been thinking, "Gee, when else could I go to church because I have to miss a Sunday?" I was proud and amazed.

I am so thankful for all of my sons. They are truly turning into Godly young men. I am thankful that even though we may sometimes falter in our parenting...they are clinging to the faith in which they have been raised. It's a BLESSING beyond what they will ever know.