Fears for my son: Biblical Sexuality

Parenthood has been quite the ride these past 10 months and 18 days. I love my son as I have never loved anything before. Any expression on his face or little accomplishment does not go unnoticed or without celebration. He is a vital part of my heart and I love him. I only want all that is best and beautiful for him. But in that desire for his life, there will be challenges in teaching him what is right, especially since what is right is often incredibly unpopular. It seems the world accepts or even encourages sin as long as it is "safe" or "victimless." How do I tell him there is no such thing?

One of my fears centers around teaching him a correct, biblical view of sex. I thought I had learned the correct view growing up, but I see now that I did not have the whole story. I never knew that the compromises I made would affect my marriage and even my ability to be a good parent to my children.

Thankfully, Christian leaders are coming forward to help adults and children alike learn the beauty of sexuality as God intended. One such leader is Mark Driscoll and his wife. I read a post on the Resurgence website that offered some good general advice and helpful, though heartbreaking, information about sexuality among children today. It was very thought provoking and reminded me that I want to be proactive, not reactive, in raising my son to know what is right. I encourage other parents to consider discussing this and other important topics before the child asks the question. Be prepared; do your research and prayerfully consider how to best communicate with your child.

As a parent, we are charged with a heavy, beautiful, exciting, wonderful task of molding another person. Let us take hope in the promises of God and His faithfulness to supply what is needed. In this case, I need heaps of wisdom!

Beautiful!

Two of the best things in my life...

Welcome to our first child, a little boy!

Having a son is really quite an amazing thing. He's just one more display of God's love for us.

Reflection

As I think about the past months, reading old blog posts and personal journal entries, I am somewhat surprised at how different my thoughts and struggles are now after eight months of marriage, 4 months of pregnancy, and one year of graduate studies. Of course I had anticipated a ridiculous amount of change after my wedding, yet there is no method of preparation for all that has come.

I am so very blessed to have my husband beside me. I am confident, with God's grace and strength, nothing will break our commitment; not even my past sin, nor my future shortcomings. I must admit, though, the idea of being a mother is terrifying. I am starting to think defending my thesis will be easier than giving birth. And every time the prospect of having a child frightens the tears out of me, Alex is there with a shirt to cry on as I sit in his arms and listen to his assurance that, though terrifying, it will surpassingly amazing. I am so thankful to have him.

In summation of 2009, I have learned many lessons the hard way, yet God has proven that he remains faithful when I am not. Alex has proven his love is continual. The change and opportunity for despair will continue well into the next year, yet I merely see at as yet another chapter of my many adventures. I have started a new glorious adventure this year of which much of the future is unknown. Yet, I know this: God is God and I am not, and this is wonderful!

Today's feelings about my thesis

Why I wore sweats to school today...

Quotable Lewis

The sweetest thing in all my life has been the longing—to reach the Mountain, to find the place where all the beauty came from...