Some would define spiritual formation as the incorporation of spiritual character in a child. They’d talk about rules and habits and disciplines, and this focus would indeed include many good things.
Others would take it a little further. It would include the introduction of holy habits and spiritual character in a child. It might even include the official enrolling of a child onto a church roster, or even a “confirmation” ceremony where a child is confirmed in the faith. All of these are part of spiritual formation—but there’s more to consider.
The bible speaks of spiritual formation in the life of a child, or of a human for that matter, in another way!
Not in terms of a “confirmation.” But in terms of a “co-formation.” A co-formation of the life of Christ in the child! Have you ever considered that as your goal in raising your child? To help “birth” the formation of Christ in them?
The apostle Paul spoke of it to his “spiritual” children this way:
Galatians 4:19 (New International Version)
19My dear children. . .I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,
I’m in labor with you, he said. I’m in “pains” he said. Not until you graduate. Not until you get a soccer scholarship. But “until Christ is formed in you!” That is God’s goal for all and the task of all-parents, extended families, spiritual
families, all families, actually, all humans—the co-formation of the life of Christ in us.
REFLECTION POINTS: What is the goal of spiritual formation? In my life? In the life of my child?
Is there a connection between the two? Is your current life style facilitating your child’s spiritual formation? Your own spiritual formation?
A complete copy of this study can be emailed to you by writing jim.valekis@gci.org.
Coming up this Sunday, at 10:30 a.m. at CrossRoads on 3rd and Broadway:
July 31: Parents: RAISING A CREATURE OF THE SEVENTH DAY
There was a seventh day of “rest” that followed the original creation. It pictured a relationship of peace and rest and special relationship God destined Himself and mankind to eternally share. Our children were not just made to be creatures of the “sixth day”. They’re formed in the image of God! Humans were made to be creatures of the “seventh day.” And that’s one way to describe what spiritual formation for your child, and for you, is all about!
Kids Track: The Magic Mirror: YOU!
“Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” YOU ARE! Because you’re ONE with the coolest guy ever, Jesus. You’ll see how you are supposed to be a “mirror” image of God—one that reflects His coolness. And the more you look into the magic mirror of Jesus, the more like Him—and the cooler you can become.
