Wednesday, May 21, 2014

"heredi-TEA" : an individual cuppa

We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD, about his power and his mighty wonders. (Psalm 78:4, NLT)
In the Christian faith, one is not born a Christian. Everyone comes to the Lord on his own. Acceptance of faith is not hereditary. Heredi-TEA in the Lord doesn't come through the bloodline of the parents, but through an individual's acceptance of the atoning blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. One claims faith for himself; it's not ascribed by birth.
However, God's word instructs us in several ways to guide one's children to that end: to share the goodness of the Lord; to tell of His deeds and power in one's own life; Recalling all the ways God has shown His hand.  

Legacy in the spiritual realm is a lifestyle as you can only leave what you live.
As DTS former professor, Howard Hendricks, said, "You cannot impart what you do not possess."

You teach what you know, but you reproduce what you are.
Our older son brings each of his sons to Memphis the summer prior to his kindergarten year for a “heritage trip.”  A trip to Daddy’s hometown to see us, the paternal grandparents, along with Daddy’s former homes, schools and favorite places, and a side trip to Pickwick---where his daddy spent his growing up years.

A time of one-on-one events, coupled with lots of BBQ.
May each Liles generation "set its hope anew on God,..." (Psalm 78:7)
Building relationships is key to sharing a faith that "sticks"......"so the next 
generation might know them, even the children not yet born and they in turn 
will teach their own children." (Psalm 78:6)

"Heredi-TEA" : an individual cuppa of faith served singly (one by one) by the Lord Himself.