Recently one of my friends posted this article on Facebook. It's about how people tend to praise kids at the top of their lungs when they win at sports, but not when they bring home an A in school. I totally agree with the author's point. We should absolutely cheer for our kids when they get an A. That makes total sense.
Still, I can't help but wonder: is that what I really want to focus my cheers on? Don't get me wrong, I want my kids to do well in this life. Education is very important. My kids bring home an A and I cheer. I want to raise a bunch of nerds. The focus shouldn't be on that either, though.
If I had to choose one thing to cheer it wouldn't be the school tests, the essays or the SAT results. It wouldn't be the home run or the soccer goal either. My kids would get the cheers for spiritual achievements. Good character choices would have me screaming. When my older two were baptized, I was there with the camera and I shouted for joy. When my kids memorize Bible verses I cheer. When they make the choice on their own to do something nice for another, I want to take them out for pizza to celebrate.
In the end it isn't about how much money you have made. There was a quote by LZ Granderson in the article (a really good statement, by the way) "Jocks go on to play for your favorite team but nerds go on to own the teams those jocks play for. " Jocks and nerds alike still need Christ. There are plenty of both who have gotten into trouble for lack of integrity and self control. Character matters. Christ matters. Eternity is hell without Him.
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