I know you have seen them. Perhaps you are even wearing one (or several) right now. They are those colorful silicone rubber bands that, when on the wrist function like a regular bracelet but when taken off they revert to their original shape (animals, objects, numbers or letters).
They are fun and they are widely popular. Kids treat them like commerce and trade them with one another. For a kid who does not bring in an income, the underground world of silly bandz can be quite a little industry.
In our house Silly Bandz are, and have been, all the rage, particularly among our little girls. They collect and trade with frugality and discipline. Therefore, when they ‘give’ one away to a family member it is seen as a significant sign of love and affection.
This is why whenever I see these bracelets I smile. I think of my kids, their friends, and their little underground market of commerce and affection.
Recently this emotion came to my aid.
I was in the midst of a rather difficult counseling session. One of our other pastors was with me and we were visiting with a church member. The other pastor (we’ll call him Dave) was being firm. He was doing the job of a shepherd. He was laying out the Scriptures and exercising proper biblical authority. He was doing it with such compassion, tenderness and care. As I watched him I was so refreshed. It was such a proper pastoral balance.
Then it happened. As Dave leaned forward on his seat to make a point, with arms extended to aid his communication, I saw two silly bands on his wrist. I had to laugh. Then I had to smile. And, full disclosure, I almost wept.
Why?
It is because this was not the first time my fellow pastor has been firm and tender with people he loves. He has four children at home. He is trying to raise them to love and serve Jesus. Therefore, he has to, as the head of the home, be pastoral. He must deal with sin biblically. He must both correct and instruct. He must do so lovingly but uncompromisingly.
And he has. I know this because I know his life. But I also know it again because of his Silly Bandz. His kids have pinned their affection upon him like a carnation. He has loved them like a Dad, like a shepherd in his home and they likewise love him and show him affection.
By no means am I saying all elders need to wear Silly Bandz (that would be silly). But, what I am saying is that they should be the type of guy who would be given one without compromising. He should be the type of guy who is loved and respected by his children. He should be the type of guy who wears the lapel of affection from his children with the clear conscience of being a faithful Dad.