I was reflecting this week about how much my family has shaped the person that I am today. Without them, I would not be near as effective in ministry.
Here’s what I mean:
Cheryl: (My wife)
- Models patience for me. (I haven’t copied exactly, but it’s a work-in-process)
- Keeps me grounded in life. (Her greatest joy in life is being with me and the boys.)
- Gives me a consistent goal in life. (I want nothing more than for her to be happy.)
- Teaches me to be a kinder, gentler person. (Our church should be glad!)
Jeremy: (My 20 year old son)
- Models forgiveness for me. (He is the most forgiving person I know)
- Encourages me to slow down and enjoy the moment (He’s a strong P in Myers-Briggs language)
- Shapes an “it’s okay” attitude in my heart. (He never seems to stress)
- Opens me up to deeper conversations. (He’s a talker and a tremendous relationship builder.)
Nate: (My 17 year old son)
- Models reality for me. (He sees things more in black and white)
- Holds me accountable (Nate can be my biggest critic, but he’s usually right!)
- Stretches my innovation. (Nate is a creative thinker. He is always challenging status-quo)
- Keeps me light-hearted (No one makes me laugh more than Nate!)
Has your family shaped you?
As much as I critique, I also want to say that I realize the only reason I’m able to succeed at all the things I succeed in is because you have worked with me my whole life. You’ve taught me how to speak, how to lead, how to love, etc. So thanks for that. Don’t expect another positive comment for another 62 days..
My wife is my rock in ministry. Even though she has multiple health problems, she never fails to be the encourager, and when I feel like I’ve thrown out a bad message, she provides positive, constructive criticism and definitely tells me when the “home run” has been hit as well. My kids are right there next in line, my oldest keeps me informed/advised if my messages register with teens or not, and my youngest takes notes and tells me what he learned. So, I couldn’t begin to do this without my family by my side!