What is “Salt & Light at home”? It is an attempt on our part to recognize and honor the fact that God made parents the real youth workers! While we get to hang out and do crazy fun things till all hours of the morning – we get to send you home. And who has to deal with you? Your parent’s, that’s who. Who gets to do the easy, fun stuff? We do, that’s who.

God knows what you need and has given you parents who are custom made to help you grow. We love that truth, so we want to encourage you, as teens, to spend intentional time with your parents. It is so important that we change our schedule every sixth week (or so). Your parents are there for you 24/7. We are lucky to give you an hour or two a week.Your parents are a gift from God, given to you for your good and growth.

Every time we get close to “Salt & Light @ home” we challenge you to take time to ask your parents a very difficult question: “Do you see any attitudes or behaviors that concern you, or that I should work on?” We want to encourage you to draw close to those who love you so much that they spend countless hours thinking about this – even when you don’t ask.

But we realize that this question may be pretty intimidating – so we challenged you to be willing to write it in a letter. That way you can get the words right, and express things how you want to. It may make it easier for your parents, because they can think through their response, as well.

Here’s how a letter might sound:

Dear [parent or guardian],

I’m writing to ask a favor. I know I am not perfect, and that there are times that I do not always see life as clearly as I should. It’s like I’m blind – I don’t see where my attitude is off or my actions are out of line. I admit I need help from people who love me and want my best. Would you help me?

Would you prayerfully answer a couple of questions for me? I promise, I’ll take your answers seriously and ask God to help me lay out a plan for spiritual growth. I also promise to guard my reactions; don’t be afraid of hurting my feelings.

  • Where do you see me growing? Are there strengths or abilities in me that could be used for ministry to others and God’s glory?
  • Are there attitudes or behaviors that are out of line in me?
    • Do you see idols in my life (an idol is any desire – even for good things – that I make into a demand, that I put into the “need” category or act like I can’t live without. That demand can be for a relationship, an object, or someone else’s approval)?
    • Have you seen me judge or criticize you or others when I didn’t get my way?
    • Have you seen me manipulate or punish you or others in order to get my way?
  • If there was just one change God would bring about in my life in the next six months, what would you pray it would be?
  • Is there a promise from God that you can share with me to help me and encourage me as I seek God’s transforming power in my life?

Thanks for helping me. Please pray for me. I want to cooperate with God in His work to free me from love for that which can never satisfy, and grow in love with the One who is infinitely attractive.

Hey, you translate it into your own particular language – maybe you only take on one or two of the questions. We just challenge you to be teachable, to show a heart of wisdom which rejoices in your parents and their love for you.

Will you do it?