I’m waiting on something. There’s something that I want – it’s not a new purse or clothes, although I want those too. Yet every time I think about going after what I want, I feel the Lord whisper to me, “Wait”. Since this isn’t what I want to hear, nor does it make sense, I’ve been trying to dismiss this “Wait”. I find myself thinking, “Weeellll, maybe that voice is just my own fear and insecurity. Surely God wants this for me”. I then use that as justification and seriously consider moving forward and sometimes do.  

Too often in the past, I’ve dismissed this same “Wait”. And each and every time, I’m disappointed that I did. Like the time the Lord asked me to “Wait” and trust Him and His timing for our first pregnancy. In asking me to “Wait”, the Lord was telling me that He wanted the full glory for our pregnancy. But the Lord was taking too long. So I got my hands all over my wait and I moved ahead with doctors, procedures, and even acupuncture. And because I didn’t “Wait”,

As a Children’s Pastor, I know that one of the bravest and strongest things a parent can do is to embrace the teachable moments found within the wake of a tragedy. Here from the National Association of School Psychologists   is advice for parents and teachers on how to talk to young people of different ages about violence:

High profile acts of violence, particularly in schools, can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears.

1. Reassure children that they are safe. Emphasize that schools are very safe. Validate their feelings. Explain that all feelings are okay when a tragedy occurs. Let children talk about their feelings, help put them into perspective, and assist them in expressing these feelings appropriately.

2. Make time to talk. Let their questions be your guide as to how much information to provide. Be patient; children and youth do not always talk about their