Worth Passing Down

Certain events mark life stages more than age. I remember one such event that felt like a significant shift. I had a friend growing up named Allison. It was a platonic relationship, as opposite sex relationships should be in adolescence. One day, we were playing down at the park, and I got the audacious idea of smacking my lips against hers. I’m not sure what qualifies manhood (certainly not a kiss), but I was almost certain of its proximity that day. She said, “Why did you do that?” And I said, “I don’t know, I just felt like it.” She said, “Well, don’t do that again.” We went right back into a platonic relationship that we enjoyed until college. 

A similar event happened to me the day I got a learner’s permit. There was no kissing, but I do remember the feeling when my dad tossed me the car keys. I had grown up driving lawnmowers, golf carts, and motorcycles, so I was familiar with the general concept. When we walked out of the Opelika DMV, Dad tossed me the keys and told me to drive. Our car was a white Mitsubishi hatchback, so it wasn’t much bigger than a golf cart. I’m not sure if Dad was nervous, but I recall his stoic manner as he wedged into the passenger seat and buckled up. It was a definitive event. A marked shift into a new season of life. 

We all have events that demarcate the seasons. Marriage, childbirth, career changes, loss, and moves are some of these events, and the associated memories are easily recalled. What I am enjoying in this season is experiencing events through my children that bring life full circle. How am I old enough to relive a memory through my child? Life is but a mist indeed!  

Last week, I took my son on an adventure to the DMV. The only adjective that does the DMV justice is adventure! We were off to get his learner’s permit, and as I sat in the crowded room, my thoughts drifted back to 1998. I savored the moment with my son as I reflected on the memory I made with my father almost 3 decades ago! My mind vacillated between the memory and the moment.   

When Elliott passed his test, I knew I had a decision to make. I tossed the keys in his direction and said, “Let’s go. You’re driving!” I passed down a new memory between father and son. I now know how nervous my dad must have been sitting in the passenger seat with a newly minted driver. Elliott did a great job! We only hit 3 of the 20 cars we passed! Just kidding. 

I was thankful to pass down the DMV experience to my son, and it got me thinking about what else of significance I was passing down.  

The LORD is great and is highly praised; his greatness is unsearchable. One generation will declare your works to the next and will proclaim your mighty acts. Psalm 145:3-4

We don’t have to be parents to pass the faith along to the next generation, but as a parent, there is no greater responsibility. They are God’s children, but what an opportunity to be a home that celebrates the goodness of God in every season of life. Bethany and I don’t always get it right, but one thing we love to do is declare the mighty works of God in our home. God’s power, provision, and protection are evident every day.  As parents, we get the privilege to give testimony. How great is the LORD and worthy of our praise!