A "No" that Blesses

My 9 year old son begged me to take him to church on Wednesdays night to meet up with his friends in his class. I did not particularly go on Wednesday because of my busy schedule, however, I couldn't fix my lips to tell him that he could not go to church, so I committed to taking him and taking a class myself.

Well anyway, one of the highlights of his evening is after class when he and his friends skateboard on the side of the building where there are lots of ramps/slops. Being a person in business, I understand liability to the full and saw their fun only as a huge liability for our church. It would bother me every time, however, the other kids were doing it so I would reluctantly let him participate. Every week I would tell him no, and then give in. My resolve was the fact that if the church was concerned they would stop it. Especially Big Willie on the security team.

At any rate, last Wednesday, we had our normal argument about him taking his skateboard. This time, I really gave in because Daddy's gave his input - "let the boy take his skateboard". Being the submission wife I gave in. (Really, I just didn't have the energy to plead my liability concerns to the both of them).

So he skated for about 20 minutes after class. Once he got in the car, he told me that they could not skate anymore. "Oh really". I said. He went on to explain that Pastor Bruce, who is sort of the Operations Pastor, I think, said that they could skate that night, but would not be able to do it thereafter.

I know that this may sound strange, but the way he handled it just blessed my socks off. What was actually a veto/no/rejection, etc., was a real blessing to see. You ask why? I know that Pastor Bruce had every right and authority to stop those kids that night right in their tracks, however, he was sensitive enough to them and very protective of their spirits by making sure he gave a "No" in a positive way. (Eph 6:4 Father provoke not your children to anger, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord). What skill he used as he modeled this scripture to its fullness. Not only was it a blessing to me but I learned something in the midst of it. "No" can be okay when the spirit of Christ is in it. Also, believe it or not, my son was not disappointed at all.

Thanks Pastor Bruce!

This is one more reason why I love my church.