Growing Multigenerational Faithಮಾದರಿ

Jacob's last words to his sons, “Gather around me, and I will tell you what will happen to each of you in the days to come.” Genesis 49:1 NLT

When you read this passage, you may start by hoping for a beautiful message of a father’s love and devoted children. It is not…it’s a man about to die telling his sons the hard truth. The stories range from calling out betrayal to celebration of favored ones. Reuben defiled Jacob’s marriage. Simeon and Levi murdered and crippled for sport. Judah was praised for his strength. Joseph has the Almighty’s blessing and will be a prince amongst his brothers. And many other words of destiny to his sons.

Something is missing…the Hope of Jesus. What if each of the stories and blessings ended with a message about the Hope of Jesus? When you read Genesis 49, try adding a little piece of Jesus to the end of each story.

Reuben…you did awful things to me, you will pay the price, but there is Hope in Jesus…turn to Him.

Simeon and Levi…you are cruel and angry; there will be a curse on your wrath…but there is Hope if you turn to Jesus.

Judah…your brothers praise you and your relatives bow before you…listen to the Holy Spirit as you fulfill God’s will.

Joseph…the Almighty gives you blessings of heaven above…continue to love God and keep Jesus first in your life.

All these stories have room for the Hope and Love of Jesus. The story of the Prodigal Son comes to mind. “For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!” Luke 15:31-32 (NLT)

A father should be real with his kids. We parent with the hope that our children will make us proud. We pray that they will love Jesus and follow His will. But every human follows a different timeline and pathway. Some are blessed from day one and never veer from His blessings. Some resist His love and choose their path. Some never learn about Jesus. They are lost, but there is hope they will be found. Jesus came to change the message, to give us the good news, to pay the price for our sins so we can have a relationship with our Father! There is hope…tell your children!

Matt and Jen S. - Board, Youth Ministry Leader

Questions to Consider

1. What stories stand out from your childhood? What made them memorable?
2. How can you share the love of Jesus with younger generations in a memorable manner?

Actions to Take

1. If you don’t already, pray daily for your children and/or anyone God has brought under your care.
2. Make an effort to be genuinely interested in those you’re speaking with (try to have no ulterior agenda). Listen and ask questions more than you speak.
3. Create a respectful space to dialogue and share viewpoints (pertinent to age).

Prayer to Make

Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of this next generation. I humbly ask for the love and wisdom to share your grace and truth with those you bring into my life. Amen.