Happy Valentine’s Day, Teens Too!

So my son Jesse comes home from school yesterday with condoms. They were passed out in Life class. I passed out when I saw them. He was laughing. I wasn’t. He said, “Just on time for Valentine’s Day!” I said, “Ya, right!” He said he was going to go to the sex shop in town and get some toys. I said, “Ya, right!” I remember when this 6’3″ dude was being given his birds and the bees talk years ago. All three of our kids were in the room. After we told him all he needed to know at the time, he said, “Eewwwww! You mean you guys did that three times?” Yes, son, at least!

This is the same son who doesn’t come to church with us anymore. I’m telling you, I learn more about being a pastor, about being a person, from raising teenagers than all of seminary taught me. I’ve come to conclude that if I can be gracious and patient and understanding and compassionate with this guy, then I can be with anyone! I can’t control him. I can’t make him believe. I can’t prevent him from sinning. I can suggest, invite, love, listen… all those good things. But applying techniques that guarantee my desired results have long wasted away. I watch and I love. He is in better hands anyway.

So to all this I say, Happy Valentine’s day!