A symbol is an object that has meaning attached to it, but it is also a great tool in the parent’s tool belt.
Here are some examples of important symbols you may have in your life that carry important meaning:
- a wedding ring
- refrigerator art from when your teenager was a child
- a family heirloom that was passed down to you
- a moment in time that was captured in a photograph
- an item from your childhood home that takes you back in time when you look at it
Symbols are powerful. Today I would like to suggest that you harness the power of symbols to help pass down faith to your teenager.
If you read the Scripture, especially in the Old Testament, you will see that God used symbols and memorials to remind His people who they were and who He is.
Think that’s weird Take a look at Washington D.C. and you’ll see tons of memorials and monument set up to help us remember certain people, places or events. Our nation’s history is marked my monuments, just like the nation of Israel. All of these are ways we are reminded of something huge.
If Symbols are a powerful tool for our identity as a nation and if symbols are tools in the hands of our God to communicate to His people, don’t you think using symbols in your home might make a difference?
If I took a tour of your home today and your teenager was the tour guide, would they show me any objects in your home that have special meaning to them? Would there be symbols that remind your teenager of your family’s faith?
Would I find a place marked out for devotions or prayer? Would I be led to the place where families gather together at the end of the day to share how their days went? Would I find pictures of your family from an incredible trip you took a few years ago?
Or would I be guided to the TV? Or the computer? Would I find symbols that do not exactly help you pass down faith?
It’s time to harness the power of a symbol. Get creative and think through a way you can fill your home with meaning through powerful symbols. If you are looking for ideas you can check out the Rites of Passage Experience part on our youth ministry website. There are some really great ideas in that material for symbols to share with your teenager.
This newsletter is my way to encourage you as a parent. Your job is so important, and our youth ministry is cheering you on as you pass down faith to your teenager.
If you have a prayer request or if you want to talk with me about your teenager just contact me. I look forward to serving your family.
Cheering you on,
– Pastor Michael