Familyman Weekly – Thoughts from the Mower

Hey Dad,

Well, I’m ready for winter. The Familyman Mobile is covered up, and I chopped up all my leaves with my mower. Actually, that’s the lead-in to this week’s post. God spoke to me on my riding lawn mower.

OK, so maybe I didn’t hear His voice outloud, but it was definitely from Him. I shouldn’t be surprised because riding on a mower, going up and down in rows, gives you lots of time to think. That’s why I think old people are wise…because they have more time to cut grass.

So, I was chopping away thinking about the plight of the American dad and how we’ve been duped into following the world’s view of success and selling out our families…blah blah blah…when I asked God to show me how I can influence the world in an impacting way.

Without a millisecond of hesitation, He answered, “Love your wife.”

Oooooo, I knew He was going to say something like that. He always does. I’m thinking…BIG project, INTERNET-based marketing, social networking, and He responds with, “Love your wife.”

I hate that answer, and yet, I know He’s right. I’ve been having trouble doing that lately, not necessarily loving my wife, because I really, really do, but I think I have gotten lax in LOVING her (as in an outward expression of that love). After all, the kids have been hard, we’ve been super busy, we’ve all been sick…I know, “Love your wife.”

Last night, my wife and I went on a date. Ahhh…it was good for both of us. We ate out, did a little shopping, and held hands. It’s amazing how a few hours away can make such a difference. In fact, we decided to be more diligent at making it part of our weekly schedule.

Dad, can I encourage you to do the same? It may not be weekly…but it ought to be regular.

“Are you kidding?…We don’t have the money…it’s hard to find a baby-sitter…we don’t need breaks…we’re just fine…”

“LOVE YOUR WIFE.”

You knew I was going to say that, didn’t you?

You ‘da husband,

Todd