Charmed to Charred

A few weeks ago Ethan was living the dream. Everything was going his way. He was dominating at the sport he loves, nobody could hit him. He had won a national essay contest where he was able to meet Sharon Robinson. School was simple.

Life was good.

Over the last ten days his world has come crashing down. He didn't make it into TAG (talented and gifted), he struggled on a test at school, he has been struggling in the field in baseball.

Life has been hard.

The height of the mountain and the depth of the valley. They are experienced back to back. Soon enough he will be on the mountain top again.

In the meantime, he has to learn how to deal with the valley. As his Dad I want to ease the blow. As a man who wants him to mature I know he needs to feel the depth of this valley in his life. This is something that will prepare for him for the real valley that he will experience one day.

Often times I think of King David and his battle with Goliath. It was a low point in the history of the people of God. They were taunted and teased. They were being embarrassed on the field of battle by one man. That is, until a shepherd boy came along. He had experienced God's faithfulness in delivering to his hand bears, lions, and wolves. He courageously stepped out in faith knowing God would do it again.

David, had fully experienced small valleys. When it was time to experience a deep one he was ready. He had practiced.

I pray that I will let my son practice so that when the valley gets really deep he will be able to say:

1  The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.2  He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.t3  He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousnesst
for his name's sake.

4  Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,t
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

5  You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.6  Surelyt goodness and mercyt shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwellt in the house of the Lord
forever.t