In the past few years in parenthood we have been rightly challenged to consider the role of the different genders in our family and our culture. In our culture, the gender lines have been blended. We see women and men both looking like the opposite sex. Some do this intentionally, and others do it not fully considering the reason why. Yet, gender roles are very important.
Our culture breeds this new idea/definition of tolerance. It used to be that tolerance meant you held on to your beliefs but would listen to and maybe even dialogue around the differences another held, but still hold yours as the best. Now, tolerance has been redefined and and is not only that you hold on to your own beliefs, but that you esteem others beliefs as though they are just as valid as your own. This ideology seems flawed and unreasonable. Truth is not subject to opinion, but rather is based on an object. That object is the Word of God. Anyone disagreeing with it is therefore wrong.
This brings me back to my original thinking. When gender lines are blurred, mixed and even not recognizable it is important for Christians to take a stand based on the truth of God's Word. This being the case in the past week (and beyond really)the Lord has provided ample opportunity for teaching our boys toward becoming men.
Elijah has recently started to try and cry to manipulate and get what he wants instead of dealing with disappointment and communicating effectively. We have therefore had the privilege to teach through that. Recently we found a few bug bites in the house. So, we have been vigilant about spiders and other little creatures that are not our "friends." Elijah yesterday and for the past week has been walking around saying, "bug," and "spider...look...there." Problem being, there were no spiders. It became apparent to that there was and opportunity to teach the difference between Mommies and Daddies. Mommies typically do not like bugs and don't like to be near them and have them around.
Knowing this provided an opportunity for Daddy to teach his son how to be chivalrous, and kill....or should I say "get" the bug. Ki...or "get the bugs" father and son did while little brother looked on. After, the two older boys showed Mommy how they "got" the bug. There was a big party over it as Mommy has gained another bug squisher/"getter." After the boys continued for several minutes. Flip flops in hand, a bang on the floor, and an "I got it!" Which leaves with this question, based upon the Bible (the final authority for all things,) what is it that we can teach our children that is gender specific that will help them in adulthood to be men and women that communicate the gospel in their actions? We'd love to hear your ideas!
