It is important to give our children models of present-day believers who are willing to follow God, wherever they are, no matter the cost. These stories help our children understand that God is still accomplishing His purposes today and that they, too, can be a part of history in the making. Begin with this account of Kelly Clark.
Kelly Clark started snowboarding at age seven, before the sport was even cool. She has more snowboarding trophies than anyone in the history of the sport, including three Olympic medals. Yet, her identity as a daughter of God brings her more joy than being master of the half pipe. Look closely at her snowboard and you’ll see a sticker that reads: “Jesus, I cannot hide my love.” She attributes her success to her faith in God. Here’s Kelly’s definition of success: “With God, success looks like faithfulness. Looking at how I’ve prepared for this Olympics, my goal has been to be faithful.” Instead of focusing on what her fame can bring her, Kelly thinks about what she can give to others. According to Kelly, “Life’s a lot better when it’s not about me.”
Family Activity
Teaching Time: 1 hour
Materials: writing paper, pencils/pens, colored markers
Does your family know someone God is using to draw people to Himself? As a family, interview this person to find out details about what he or she is doing. Ask additional questions: How does faith fit into what you do? What is your definition of success? When other people look at you, what do you hope they will see? Gather your answers and write a short biography of this modern-day history maker. Share your story with others. (If you can’t think of someone to interview, research a Christian athlete like Kelly Clark.)
Option: Turn your biography into a book by adding illustrations and a cover. Bind the pages together. Give your book as a gift.
Discuss:
1. In what ways is Kelly Clark’s story different from the story of the person you interviewed/researched? How is God using both people to draw others to Himself?
2. From God’s perspective, is history only about events that happened long ago? How would you define history?
Pray:
Ask God to give your family increasing ways to participate in His story.
