Drew and Bethany had an “aha” revelation: A shared vision of what every morning could look like.
What a win it would be: Their four children feeding themselves a healthy breakfast every morning without mom and dad’s help.
Seriously?
The Steadmans, however, were not naïve. They knew that operationalizing their vision would inevitably include additional time upfront combined with ample servings of patience and persistence. In spite of their already full schedule, but very inspired by the possibilities, they began with the win in mind.
Their oldest child, Grace, was eight at the time and already exemplified a responsible mindset. Anna Joy and Audrey were chronologically right behind, keen observers and usually emulated their “big sis”. Drew and Bethany were confident these first three could step into their new roles with competency-based apprenticing. Joshua, however, would definitely require a different timeline; he was only going on three.
Drew’s Convictions from the Past Three Years
Today, Drew and Bethany are reaping the benefits of their patient apprenticing. Their family’s morning rhythms now allow both of them more time for uninterrupted devotion and reflection as well as exercise and preparing for the day’s responsibilities. This process was neither easy nor is Joshua fully trained, but they are grateful for their proactive strategy. Clearly, this “Oatmeal Template” will be replicated again and again as they continue parenting.
Here are a handful of Drew’s convictions as I interviewed him about their experience:
- Upfront clarity is essential: Starting with clear outcomes catalyzed their unity of purpose and motivated them to persevere;
- Assess capacity individually: Four children with differing ages and giftings requires four different starting points and related timelines;
- Apprentice, don’t delegate: The combination of a gas stove, fire and boiling liquid demanded a multi-step process: I do, you watch, we talk; We do it together, we talk; You do it, I watch, we talk; You do it, your sibs watch, y’all talk. Empowerment only works after foundational training!
- Coach with questions: Learning occurs best through evaluative experiences. Catalyze learning by repeatedly asking your kids three questions: What did you experience? Why did that happen? How will you go about it next time?
Charlie’s Convictions from the Past 30+ Years of Ministry
The Oatmeal Template emulates Jesus’ multi-step apprenticing process that resulted in 120 well-equipped disciples in the Upper Room. Without a doubt, it’s far more effective than any classroom paradigm of discipleship.
What are your convictions about the best way to disciple Jesus’ followers?
Still apprenticing under Jesus,
