Growing Up

 I was thinking on birthdays the other day.  Every year, on the same day, one comes around to let us know that we are one year older.  And we tend to mark these days by moments of progress.  Our first birthday we are somewhere near crawling and maybe even walking for those really fifth birthday we are getting ready for school.  By 16 we are driving.  And then sometime we stop counting because the milestones become less enjoyable - things start hurting and breaking down.  But we mark the passage of these milestones by inviting others to celebrate with us.  

I wonder if we viewed Christian growth in this way if it would help us - to think about what maturity looks like and to aim for that.  To mark progress toward maturity by celebration and joy with those who have gone before us and after us.  To give thanks for our growth and maybe even have a little cake. Instead we simply think of this kind of maturity as something that just happens and it goes without fanfare.  

So if you see someone growing in Christ - tell them you want to celebrate with them.  And even enjoy some cake with them if it helps!