Greetings from Aqueduct

Dear Friends,

As spring begins to crack through the winter thaw and nature’s cycle points our hearts toward the miraculous gift of life, particularly birth, we rejoice in the blessing of our children. If you are like us, you would agree that the privilege of parenting is the highest calling and most difficult challenge in life.  We are constantly reminded of how special every one of God’s children is to Him by experiencing the overpowering love we have for each one of our brood.  In His wonderful design, He provides insight for us about the relationship He desires with us by allowing us to be parents. His indescribable desire for us to have the very best, abundant life is better understood by us each day as we want the very best for our kids. 

There are other parallels besides the expression of love we derive from our role as parents.  Discipline takes on new meaning. It would be easier to just let ‘em run amuck. We all know some parents giving this method a try, but we know the dangers and future hurts that will come if we do not provide guidance that comes in the form of discipline. As parents, we really do know better and want what is best - so why isn’t parenting smoother sailing? Freewill has a lot to do with the complications of life. However, it is also what makes our choice to show our love for our Heavenly Father through obedience, praise and genuine worship.

And eventually, our children grow up. Training camp is over. Our input, as far as behavioral guidance, is done. It’s time to give them room to put their training to work and make their own choices, and exercise all that painstaking programming! So when are we to “kick them out of the nest?” Interestingly, our culture has done a job at prolonging this stage of “unreadiness.”  We have embraced the notion that a period of life marked by awkward gawkiness, absent mindedness and rebellion is unavoidable. Of course, adolescence has its biological phenomena and those changes are real and can cause behavioral effects. But must teenagers be difficult?

We admit that we are not equipped to answer that question. However, we are extremely excited to say that Matt Brinkley is more than equipped and ready to speak to the teenage dilemma as a long time youth pastor and author. He will be our guest at Aqueduct on March 28-29, presenting a conference entitled “Engaging Your Teen’s Potential.” It should prove to be both fun and enlightening as Matt shares his wisdom gained through so many years of ministry with youth. Be sure to check our newly launched website for details and registration at www.aqueductcc.com.

Isn’t it comforting to know that the energy and desire we put into our role as parents is but a dim reflection of the perfect love our Heavenly Father has for us! Lord, help us to see your ways more clearly and learn to keep your precepts in our hearts.

In His love and service,

Drew and Liza