You know those moments at home when you finally get affirmation that you're actually doing something right as a parent? They are rarer than I'd prefer, but when they hit, I've learned to stop, relish, and then reflect often.

We had one of those moments recently, on Election Night. While our country waited in anticipation of who would lead us for the next four years, I found hope around our dinner table.

Our boys, 7 and 5 years old, along with a friend were debating how to spend the rest of the evening before bedtime. That’s when Brady, our oldest, suddenly remembered the stash of snack bags we keep in our cars for homeless neighbors was out. The boys quickly rounded up Ziploc bags, water bottles, granola bars, and fruit snacks and started packing.

While the results of the election continued to come in and pundits from all sides discussed potential outcomes, our family was locked in conversation about how these snack bags would lift someone's spirits or give them the nourishment they might not otherwise have had. Our friend suggested adding encouraging notes for our neighbors, so all 3 boys gathered construction paper, pencils, and scissors and got to work writing sweet thoughts like "God loves you" and "Jesus is with you."

The coolest part about this whole thing was that my husband and I had very little to do with any of it.

Over the past few Sunday mornings at Highland Park United Methodist Church, the boys and their class learned about our homeless neighbors and the work of CitySquare. HPUMC Kids gave the elementary school students, including my sons’ class, an opportunity to write scripture or words of encouragement on "Welcome Home" signs for neighbors who will soon be moving into their new homes at Hickory Crossing. Their class was also encouraged to offer up support for our neighbors financially.

I think it’s obvious to say that the seeds planted during those Sunday morning classes grew into a love and respect for others who may not have the basic necessities we are blessed with.

This, friends is our future.

We are in charge of raising the next generation, a generation that looks past outward appearances to see others through the lens of our creator. We are charged with empowering them to make small efforts and changes now that will grow into waves of love, compassion, and generosity.

Will you join us? It may be as simple as bringing your kids to church each week, engaging them in conversation about their experience, and then watching what God can do with and through them.