A couple of years ago at a Path United staff meeting, a few of us were working on details of what the future of the organization would be. During the meeting, we were contemplating the measurements of what a successful Path student would look like. As we were discussing, I was asked the question, “What do you want for Zion?” As I heard the question directed at me, my emotions were aroused, and I began to tear up. I teared up because I remembered the pain and suffering I had to go to through to obtain the life I have today. My mind immediately went to the stories of King David and the path he laid out for his son Solomon.
David was a young teenager when he was anointed King, but he didn’t become King of Israel until several years later. Although he had some great accomplishments such as defeating Goliath and reuniting the land of Israel, David faced numerous trials along his path. David fought his battles and conquered all that he could with the guidance of the Lord. Towards the end of his life, David had a desire to build the Lord a temple, but the Lord told him Solomon would be the one to complete that task. So, before King David died, he did everything possible to make sure Solomon had all the resources he needed to build the temple. Because of his father, Solomon had rest from his enemies. He had the freedom to build the Lord’s temple.
As I wiped the tears from my eyes, I expressed to my fellow co-workers that I wanted Zion to have the freedom to fulfill the call of God in his life without having to face the battles I had faced. I fought the battles; I conquered all I could; I have prepared a Path for Zion. Now, my son will have fewer things to distract him from the presence of God. Zion doesn’t have to worry about his father being deported; he doesn’t have to worry about hopping from home to home; he doesn’t have to worry about where his next meal is coming from.
All this is not to say that Zion will never have to struggle. On the contrary, I believe a broken and contrite heart is what brings our hearts closer to the Lord. He will have his own battles to face, but he will not be alone. Someone has gone before him on whose shoulders he can stand. What I give to Zion is far more valuable than anything materialistic. I give him the knowledge and love I have received from the Lord. I give him the tools and relationships he will need to face his battles. Zion will reap the benefits of the seeds I have planted. What I give him shall be passed down from one generation to another.
Psalm 145:1-7 ESV
1 I will extol you, my God and King,
and bless your name forever and ever.
2 Every day I will bless you
and praise your name forever and ever.
3 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised,
and his greatness is unsearchable.
4 One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts.
5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
6 They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds,
and I will declare your greatness.
7 They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness
and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.
