Be like “B”.

This month’s challenge offers a unique opportunity to explore the faith journey of a believer who has grown from childhood into fatherhood. While everyone’s path is different—and many of us did not grow up in Christian homes—we can gain valuable wisdom from those who have. Let’s strive to learn from B’s example.

Growing up, our habits and values are often shaped by the example of our parents. As children, we mimic what we see, letting those actions become ingrained in our character. The story shared here is one of evolution—beginning with childhood imitation.

Brother B, what why did you want to give God your best when you were a child?

B: “When I was a child I did it because I watched my parents do it. It was ingrained into me.”

moving through the routines and regrets of adolescence.

Brother B, could you share with us your relationship with God while you were a teenager?

B: “When I was a teenager I did it (church) because of the “routine” of doing it. I did what all teenagers did at that time. And mostly regret a lot of things.”

culminating in a profound transformation triggered by the birth of a first child.

Brother B, why do you want to give God your best now that you are a husband and father?

B: My larger more (personal) transformation came when my 1st daughter was born. It made me a better husband, a better believer and a better person in general. I look at how the world is and where we are as a society now and all I can do is put my hope in Jesus for the life that my children will live. Without hope we have nothing in my opinion…. I look at life differently now that I have kids. They teach you so much about Jesus and forgiveness without them even knowing. I think secretly they have some sort of connection with him that we can’t see…. I say all that to say this…. I want my kids to be able to see me as a person that is patient, loving, kind, and hopeful…. Most importantly a person that “has Jesus in their heart” as G would say. And little does she know that if it wasn’t for me watching her, I wouldn’t have any of that.

When the interviewee became a parent, everything changed. The arrival of a daughter inspired a journey to become a better husband, a deeper believer, and a more compassionate person. Parenthood brought a new lens through which to view the world, highlighting both the challenges society faces and the importance of hope. For this parent, hope is rooted in faith—trusting Jesus to guide the lives of their children and recognizing that without hope, life loses its meaning.

Children, in their innocence, often teach us about forgiveness and faith in ways they don’t even realize. The interviewee reflects on how their children unknowingly demonstrate a connection to Jesus, prompting a deeper understanding of grace. It is through observing his daughter that he discovered the qualities he strives to embody: patience, love, kindness, and hope. He wants his children to see him as someone “who has Jesus in their heart,” a sentiment beautifully expressed by his daughter G.

So, here’s a challenge inspired by this journey: Let us strive to be the kind of people our children—and others—can look up to. Practice patience, show love, extend kindness, and never lose hope. Whether you are a parent, mentor, or friend, remember that sometimes our greatest lessons come from those we are teaching. Allow yourself to be transformed by the example of the young, and let your life reflect the values you want to see in the world. If the innocence and wisdom of a child can inspire such growth, imagine what we can achieve if we all accept this challenge.

Be the person with hope in your heart, and encourage others to do the same. In doing so, you might discover, just as the interviewee did, that watching the next generation can lead to the most profound personal transformation of all.