Close to Home

 Jesus gave a directive to his disciples, those who believe he is the Messiah, the anointed/promised one from Abba G-d. He said, "Go out and do as I have done...make disciples." He didn't say convince others. He didn't say get in a debate. And he didn't ask us to collect converts, persuading as many as we can that Jesus' message is the best News out there.

I realized this past week that I don't have to travel far to find my first disciples. I don't have to journey down a dirt road to Egypt like Philip did. I don't have to be arrested and sent before an emperor (in my case, president) like Paul did. All I have to do is wake up, put my pants on one leg at a time, flip the switch, and walk out into the living room. My first disciples will soon meet me. They are still dreaming.

My first disciples love it when I teach them, although, initially, they often squirm when they don't get what they want. My first disciples love to hear me say "well done". And they love to cuddle in my lap and snuggle while we pray. My first disciples love it when I kiss their boo boos and tell them that Abba even cares about their scrapes and bruises. My first disciples are like sponges.

This is when it hits close to home...they are hanging on every move, every word I speak, because that's what disciples do. They listen and watch...a lot. I am responsible to them. I am accountable to them. The heaviness of this truth met me full steam. It's an awesome thought.

My children taught me that every parent is a disciple-maker, whether they take on the responsibility or not. Parents either teach toward Abba G-d or they teach away from Him.

G-d, help me...help all of us parents...to be great disciple-makers to our children.