We love our Jesus Act Stick reward system.
We've used it for many years without wane and truly it's been a tremendous blessing for our family!
All of the kids down to our toddlers earn sticks when we observe that they've exhibited selfless love or sacrificial servant-hearted behavior with a genuine heart. When they've earned 10, they get to pick a special date with Mommy or Daddy and it's our honor to reward their kind actions. We display our Jesus Act Stick jars in a focal point on the piano where they can be visibly built into our daily life. I enjoy seeing with my eyes and allowing our children to notice tangibly the benefits of a loving heart.
The jars serve as a reminder.
The jars serve as a reminder.
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another:
just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another."
John 13:34
We believe in the power of positive affirmation and encouragement and find that when we stop to point out our children's good fruit, they grow even more. Of course, parenting also involves pruning via discipline, but we find that when we emphasize the positive, we perpetuate more positive. Children and adults alike believe what's spoken into their lives (both positive and negative). This is why we are intentional to point out and reward Christlike actions with Jesus Act Sticks and one-on-one dates with Mommy or Daddy to follow, usually alternating from parent to parent and date to date. We like to take parent/child photos together each time, ensuring that we have stored up special time capsules over the years. We talk about deep hearted things and hold hands. The kids are built up, parents as a matter of fact too, and quality time memories are made...it's a win, win! Here's to documenting just a bit of our Jesus Act Stick dates...lately.
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First up this time around was Elka...our generous girl...and her doting daddy.
Recently, Elka's special Pura Vida bracelet from Mommy (a gift before she left for China) had broken, so she went to Whole Foods with Daddy to get a new one as a sentiment for her and him, along with some organic purpley things to sprout for our garden. (We still haven't been able to find purple potatoes anywhere around here, today included.) Anyway, the one day that Whole Foods was out of bracelets and all things purple of course was today, but sweet Elka still had a great time with her daddy picking produce to grow.
They got organic pink potatoes, yams, and Japanese yams. Fun!
She also scored an extra special visit to the yogurt shop next door (consolation??).
I think so!
And...redemption when Daddy insisted she order a special bracelet online from home.
Together, they chose "Toes in the Sand"...one of their favorite things together.
Elka, you're such a great sport!
We love your attitude to roll with things and especially your willing servant heart!
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Next up was Aida and Mommy.
As I pulled out of the newborn fog and started venturing out again, I enjoyed getting to go on a date with Aida. She's such a wonderful friend and support to me. It's my pleasure to spend time out with her and hopefully make her feel special as well.
We went shopping together for a few new things she'd been needing and had sweet conversation as always.
Aida, I'm so grateful for you and how well you serve our family.
You're growing up so beautifully and truly, I am blessed to not only call you daughter, but friend.
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Next up was Noble and Daddy...and since we knew we'd be moving soon and no longer have
our community pool, Noble knew exactly what he wanted to do for his date!
Next up was Aida and Mommy.
As I pulled out of the newborn fog and started venturing out again, I enjoyed getting to go on a date with Aida. She's such a wonderful friend and support to me. It's my pleasure to spend time out with her and hopefully make her feel special as well.
We went shopping together for a few new things she'd been needing and had sweet conversation as always.
Aida, I'm so grateful for you and how well you serve our family.
You're growing up so beautifully and truly, I am blessed to not only call you daughter, but friend.
. . . . . .
For Brodie's Jesus Act Stick date he decided to surf with his dad at one of his favorite spots.
As always, they had a sweet time of fellowship, not to mention good waves...and bagels.
(and chocolate milk apparently :))
Brodie, as you grow into a young man it's a blessing to see you mold more and more into Christ's image. We're very proud of the maturity we see developing in you and we know God has great plans for you. Thank you for being teachable and desiring to follow after your Lord and Savior. He will always lead you and guide you. We love you, Brodie!
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Next up was Noble and Daddy...and since we knew we'd be moving soon and no longer have
our community pool, Noble knew exactly what he wanted to do for his date!
Hello muscles.
Noble's natural athleticism always amazes us!
Noble, you're truly a generous young man, always looking to the good of others.
Thank you for how you consistently put others before yourself.
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There was something in the water this time around...Olia chose the pool with her daddy too!
(It's a great date!)
As always, they had a wonderful time and even scored at the vending machine after!
Olia, you amaze us with your kindness. Thank you for being such a sweetheart!
As you grow older, you continue to blossom into a beautiful-hearted young lady. We are very proud of you!
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And that's a wrap on the latest Jesus Act Stick dates around here!
"So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them."
Matthew 7:12
