Pam Parish

This weekend, both of our daughters attended the Believe Conference with our church’s 212 Youth Ministry and stayed overnight at the church for their first all night lock-in.  When we picked them up tonight, we immediately noticed a change - they were both (tired, yes) but completely excited….talking not about how much fun they had with their friends, how exciting it was to stay up all night - but, instead, about how much closer they felt to God and how much the conference changed their life. I am so glad that we allowed them to go.

It’s funny how, as parents, we can sometimes view opportunities, even at church, as extra-curricular and not really necessary. In this instance, we even considered whether or not they were ready for an “all-nighter” - asking ourselves all the questions, “Will they behave”, “What if something happens”, etc.. but in the end, we realized that we have to let go sometimes and just let them experience times with God that provide intimacy and change. We certainly weren’t disappointed.

I know in my own life, it’s times that I’m away from my “normal” routines that I find the greatest intimacy. There’s just something about getting into a different environment that opens our minds and hearts. It’s even more life-defining when we can experience it with others. This is also the time when some of the greatest friendships of our lives develop, through shared experiences.I guess the reason that I’m blogging about this is because I’m very proud of my daughters for opening their hearts to God and, I want to encourage others not to overlook these opportunities for their own children. It was well worth it for my girls. They’re lives have been irrevocably changed.

Be very blessed,

~Pam