An ancient Hebrew proverb states, “Do not conform your children to your own learning, for they were born in another time.” I have pondered the wisdom of these words and find them profound. I see value in applying it to my grandchildren, our church organization and in our changing world. Are there constants? When God called me in 1962 there was no such thing as a personal computer or the Internet.

Wise and mature older people show great wisdom in recognizing that their experiences in life, though very valuable, often fit a different time and circumstance. Things like air travel, satellites ships and explosive growth in knowledge have changed the world. However, there are some eternal values that do apply to every period of history. They are vital to every generation, in every nation, race and culture. Those values are found in the Bible. The writings of the Bible are just as profound today as they were 3,000 and more years ago. The two great commandments that reflect all of God’s laws are: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength," and the second, like it, is this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus stated, "There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30-31). The Bible tells us how to love God and our neighbor. Times may not be the same, but when the great learnings are lost, troubles mount. Teach the children well.