What's Your Attitude Towards Your Child?

What's Your Attitude Towards Your Child?

...When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion [on him]... Luke 15:20

Chuck Colson writes, 'When I was at Buckingham Palace... Prince Philip asked me, "What can we do about crime here in England?" I replied, "Send more children to Sunday school." He thought I was joking. But I pointed out a study by sociologist Christy Davies, which found that in the first half of the 1800s British society was marked by high levels of crime and violence, which dropped dramatically in the late 1800s and early 1900s. What changed an entire nation's national character? Throughout that period attendance at Sunday schools rose steadily until by 1888, a full 75 per cent of children in England were enrolled. Since then attendance has fallen off... with a corresponding increase in crime and disorder. If we fill the Sunday schools we can change hearts and restore society.' Does that mean our children will never lose their way? No, it just means they'll realise the truth of what they were taught, recall the joys of being in 'Father's house', and return because they know they'll be welcomed back. You'll notice, no charge of parental neglect is laid at the doorstep of the prodigal's father. He was a great role model. He supported his children financially and emotionally. He guided them without forcing them to conform. He gave them room to fail - and a place to return. What does reflect on us as parents, however, is our attitude towards them. Your child may be 'a great way off', but they need to know you care, that you love and pray for them, and that you'll welcome them home.