Force 410 Update

As I write this update, we have just passed the quarter pole on the Force 410 racetrack. And I just asked myself the question, "Do the kids give more encouragement, or need more encouragement?" The answer to the question may vary depending upon in who's shoes you stand.

If you are a member of the congregation that is not actually in the Force 410 classes right now, you are probably receiving far more encouragement from the kids than they can possibly imagine. The parents are very proud of their young ones and excited to see them developing and growing and becoming. And us old folks are delighted to see the spark of faith that indicates that the things we treasure the deepest will be passed along to a new generation. As their teacher, it gives me great satisfaction to see their efforts, and to watch them succeeding in so many very important ways.

If, however, you happen to be one of those in the class, you may be really needing a pat on the back and a word of encouragement because some of the things you're doing the harder and more challenging than you've ever been asked to do at the church. The transition from little children to the boys and girls is not particularly easy for most. The tests can be overwhelming, though I wish you could see that they are only a measure of how well I'm doing in transferring information to you. And doing some of the service projects, whether publicly or privately, can be demanding.

So if you are one of those receiving encouragement by seeing the young people deal with this basic training, I hope you continue to take satisfaction, but that you will also take the time to offer encouragement to the trainees. They are building relationships that can sustain them through the teen years. And they are learning truths that can sustain them throughout their lives and into eternity.




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