Spring Break - Wisdom and Idols

At NMC, many (well over half) of our students head somewhere over Spring Break. Most to Florida, a few to other spots. Some with family, some with friends. Some with adult supervision, some without

I met with 4 guys this morning. 4 guys who are solid and I believe have a relationship with Christ. All of them are traveling somewhere over Spring Break. All of them going with family... 3 to Florida, 1 on a road trip to various spots. When I asked them all what was one thing I way I could be praying for them, they gave me various answers, but there was one they all agreed with... pray for wisdom. They were quick to point out that, even with family around, the temptation level is very high. The mentality is, "take a break from everything."

I loved that their request was for wisdom. I have seen more spiritual and moral crash and burns as a result of choices made over Spring Break than any other "event" on the calendar (second is probably the prom).

Every Wednesday before Spring Break, I take a moment to be "Daddy Derry" and share my heart to our students. I try my hardest not to be on old fuddy-duddy and do the "You kids stay out of trouble," but instead remind them of a few thoughts.

• Spring Break is not evil. In fact it's a great opportunity to rest, relax, rejuvinate. However, Spring Break is not an idol to be worshipped.
  
• The point is to take a "break", but there are some things you can't take a break from.
• No matter what situation you are heading into, this is a week where you have an opportunity to live out your faith or lay it down. Choose Wisely.
• It takes a lifetime to build up the trust and respect of those around you. It can only take a moment to throw that away and have to build it all up again.

And there is a glimpse into what my prayer life will be looking like over the next 10 days. Prayers for wisdom, protection, opportunity, and an army of students who will not lay down their faith for an idol named "Spring Break."