Speaker’s Comments
I don’t know of a phrase that will excite a person
more than the phrase – “I dare you.” As a kid, it was
the ultimate challenge of kidhood (this is not a word
but it should be, like “manhood”). Every child has had
to face a major decision as an enemy, friend, cousin,
or sibling raised the stakes on a challenge with three
simple words. I suppose the phrase has led to more
groundings and regrets, but for those who accepted
the challenge and succeeded it left a feeling of
triumph. Of course, the phrase can also be good,
especially when children, teenagers, young adults,
and adults hear the phrase from God. This is true
during seasons when our daily lives change,
particularly as we near the end of summer, there will
be changes with the start of a new school year.
Parent work schedules will need to account for taking
children to school and picking them up. Children and
teenagers go back to school. Some may be entering
elementary school, middle school, or high school.
There are even those who will start college or
continue at a college or university. For all
Lubbockites, we have students who will join our
communities. So, we are faced with our own dare.
God challenges or dares us to recommit ourselves to
Him in the midst of these changes. Before our time is
absorbed with homework assignments, parent-teacher
meetings, and those who work with students
in church-supported ministries.
Our calendars are filling up fast. He wants us to
remember to worship Him and fellowship with
each other in the midst of our busyness.
Additionally, as Christians, we are also challenged to
be distinct. God dares us to be distinct. In our
attitudes, habits, lifestyle, and the way we interact
with the world around us. But, God reminds us that
we are loved and supported by Him, so we don’t
embark on this “dare” alone. One way we are
reminded that we are not
alone is when we look to the pages of scripture,
especially to a young man named Daniel.
Sincerely, Abel Rios
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