Back to the Basics

Do you remember when you took Driver’s Ed? Well, my oldest daughter was in driver’s education classes last week and it was an experience. Actually, the experience continues.

I’ve been driving for several decades now. But if you get in the car with me, you would be astonished at the number of driving infractions I commit according to my daughter. The conversation (or critique) goes something like this…(italics mine!)

“Mom, aren’t you supposed to have your blinker on?” (Oh, I guess so)

“What are you doing, Mom? Don’t you know U-turns are not allowed in our county?” (Since when?!)

“Mom, do you have your seatbelt on?” (I’m still sitting in the driveway thank you very much)

“You are too close to that car. You should stop far enough back where you still see their tires.” (I can see the tires, sweetie. I’m in the front seat and you are in the back.)

“Did you know you should be able to change lanes in three seconds or less?” (Are you kidding me?!)

I guess driving has become routine for me. So much of it is done without giving it a second thought. And honestly, who really keeps up with new driving laws? (Although I am vaguely aware that talking or texting on a cell phone may become illegal in our state. Or is it already illegal?!)

Getting back to the basics with my driving has also caused me to question other areas of my life and how they may have become routine. They’ve lost the sharpness, the newness, and the thrill of the adventure. Is my relationship with Jesus just a routine? Do I simply maintain commitments in ministry because I’m a responsible adult? Have I become lazy with the spiritual disciplines in my life? And how am I teaching and mentoring the basics of Bible study, prayer, quiet time and scripture memory to girls and women so that it doesn’t become another routine without any passion or substance?

How do you keep the wonder and freshness of faith alive for girls in your ministry? How do you keep it alive in your own walk with Christ?