Prop: shepherd’s staff (invisible cloak / rock of salvation / living water / sling and staff)

We all have dreams for our children! We set them free to make their own decisions in the world, but at the same time we take care to guide them, pray for them, dream for them, envision a future for them in which we play a relational part. We so want them to live fulfilling and satisfying lives, filled with life, love, and happiness. Anyone want to dispute that?

Being a parent is a kind of higher calling, in which you put your own wants and needs aside, and your children’s first, no matter what it takes! Maybe that’s one reason why the number of us who are having children is decreasing, as the child-free home is becoming the norm, not the exception.

Parents and Grandparents here this morning: is…