In my last post you learned about my adventurous life as a child with my dad and how even going to the bank was an adventure with him. We also did lots of “exploring.”
Exploring
“Exploring” almost always included being in nature. We’d go exploring at one of the parks in town, exploring by a creek in the mountains, or exploring on a hike to a state park or national monument. I never knew what to expect.
I think most times Daddy had a plan… or at least a general idea… for where we were headed, but I think neither of us really knew where we’d end up before heading home. Sometimes we’d head to our destination and add another stop that ended up being even more fun that what he’d planned.
Talking and Listening
No matter where we went or what we were doing, we talked. I think mostly he listened, and I talked, but I remember we’d tell make-believe stories together, talk about real life situations, and talk about Bible stories. I loved any playtime with my daddy, really, I just loved time with him.
My husband and I have very intentional conversations with our children “in our goings”. We often have family theological, social, and political conversations at dinner or on our way to visit relatives or on the way to school. Our children feel free to ask us tough questions about our culture, their friendships, and things that matter to them.
His Creation
Whenever we get the chance, we talk about important things with them. There are certain places communication flows more freely, though. There’s just something about being on a beach watching the waves, hiking a trail to see changing leaves, walking through a zoo, or splashing in a creek that frees the soul to play, talk and connect.
Being in God’s presence surrounded by His creation sparks creativity and curiosity in all of us. There’s nothing like being reminded how small we are compared to His vast creation and, yet, how important we are to Him.
Please take time this summer to explore with your children. Get lost for a little while in God’s creation with them and talk about Him with them while you’re doing it. Don’t let this season pass without being intentional and focused on Him in His creation with them. Be explorers together. I pray God will use the time to build lasting memories in your children and in you!
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2
Where in nature does your heart feel most connected to God and free to connect with your family?