1 Kings 2:1-4

1 Kings 2:1-4
English Standard Version (ESV)

  When you think about what you want for the next generation, what comes to mind?  We're hoping that at least one of the kids grows up to be rich so they can support us in our golden years!  Our default is to hope for our kids to be happy and successful, but the Biblical charge is to raise them to be faithful to God, to be leaders in their community that encourage others to be faithful disciples.  As David is dying, he charges Solomon to be faithful to the Lord, reminding him that this is the most important task he has before him, and that only through faithfulness will his line continue on the throne. 
  May our prayer for the children of the next generation be that they grow closer to God each day, that the Spirit encourages them to point to God through their words and deeds, that they enrich their communities through selfless love and service and share the Good News of the hope and peace that we find in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.