A Vision for Jack

This week, the boys and I were snuggling on the couch and reading a devotional about Vision. A man, Ben Carson, grew up in a poor area in Michigan and was labeled "dummy" as a kid. But when his mom took the TV away and gave them access to the local library, Ben realized his potential and caught a "vision" for his life. He is now a pediatric neurosurgeon at John Hopkins in Maryland. After sharing this devotion with the boys, we talked about how they could catch a vision for their lives and we talked about the gifts God has given them and what they might want to use them for. In turn, this is a small glimpse of the conversation.

Mom: Spencer, what do you want to be when you grow up?

Spencer: I just want to play football. I want to be a football player.

Mom: Spenc, that is great, I think you will make an amazing football player and I think when you get out there, you will be an amazing witness for Christ. Your character will share the love of God with everyone. (Spencer smiles.) And your passion for football is so cool.

Mom: Jack, what about you?

Jack: I just want to be a Dad.

Mom: Jack, you are going to be an amazing Dad.

Jack: I just want to play with my kids.

Mom: I think that is great. You are going to be so good at being a father one day. But...uh hum.. Jack, you are also called to provide for your family and your children. The Bible talks about providing and having a high work ethic, hard working, and providing. I know you want to stay home with your kids and play but it will also require you catching a vision at some point, too! Think about the things you would not have if your Dad didn't provide for us. (Jack is very quiet and you can see his wheels turning.)

Spencer: Jack, you are going to have to get a job. I'm not going to give you money. I mean, I will help you if you need it, but you are going to need to earn some money for yourself first.

Mom: Jack, honey, there is balance and I think God has an amazing future for you and I think He will use your gifts in very neat ways. I can't wait to see that.

Spencer: Jack, I'm not going to give you money unless you work.

Mom: Okay, Spencer, he gets it.

Jack: (still thinking) ... Sighs ... and says "okay Mom. I will get a job BUT I am NOT working past noon.

It was truly one of those moments that I will never forget. And no, it is not too early to have these conversations!!! It gets them thinking and creates wonderful dialogue! It was a time when I wish the video camera had been rolling! Needless to say, I have laughed all week about this little conversation and Scott said, "If anyone can come up with something that makes a ton of money and allows them to work only until noon, I do believe it would be Jack!"