We had our first chapel today at Bethel (which you can watch live 10am on MWF here), and it is by tradition that the president of the college speaks to the student body. Let me just say that Bethel College is blessed to have the leadership of Dr. Steve Cramer as our president. . . He told a story today that I wanted to pass along to you because it really got to me as a father, a leader in our church’s youth group, and as a professor of about 150 or so students that I have the privilege of teaching this semester.

There was a dad who happened to be late to work one day, but since his wife was out of town, he needed to take his 6-year old daughter to school that morning. Now, since his wife usually took his daughter to school if she ever missed the bus (like she did that morning), he did not know how to get there. . . he was confident, though, that his daughter could guide him to her school. So, he rushed along . . . getting his work stuff and her school stuff all in the car, and off they went. Every few minutes or so, his daughter would confidently tell her dad to turn left or turn right . . . and so they travelled. After about 20 minutes they arrived at the school, only to discover that it was only a couple of blocks away from their home. Now, really being late for work, the Dad, in frustration, asked his daughter. . . honey, why did you take me on that long route around town when your school is only a few blocks from our house?  The daughter looked back at her dad. . . knowing that he was upset, and said sorry daddy, that’s the way that the school bus goes. . . it’s the only way that I know how to go. . .

Do  you know someone that is trying to achieve success at work, in relationships, school, or in battles within their own head, but they don’t seem to be getting anywhere?? Maybe, they don’t know any other way?? You know. . . that is how their mom or dad did it, it’s what their brother or sister did, that’s how their friends do it, that’s what People magazine said to do, or google told them to do it like that - whatever it is. . . let’s try not to assume that they “should know better” – - Here’s an idea. . . how about we love them out of that cycle – take the time to enter into their life and journey with them. Make a commitment to be around them enough that they can see how you do things. Do you know someone like this??

Is that person you. . . ?

Regardless if it is or if it isn’t, we all face these issues somewhere along life’s journey. If it is in your past, then I believe that to withold such wisdom from others is a tragedy, and if it is in your present, I encourage you to pray for the courage to ask for help. . . . . . we really are all in this together – one body, I need you, and you need me. . .