Take Risks
While we were busy year round, fall became the time of year we most looked forward to. We fell into a rhythm that included wading the Zumbro River in the dark before school, checking our muskrat, mink and beaver sets. Then we were walking woodlines and windrows checking sets for fox, racoon and badger. Then we would race home, take a shower, eat breakfast, and head to school. After school, we had football practice (which eventually led into wrestling practice).
After practice, mom always had a great meal ready for dinner, and then we were skinning and stretching fur until bedtime. I still love the smell and crisp, cool air of those early fall mornings. There is something that works for good in the heart of a boy when he's allowed to experience being alone in the 'wild country.' And even though our 'wild country' was never far from a dairy farm or gravel road, it was still wild to us.
Friends, do you let your boys take risks? Do you let them experience a little fear and danger? You should. Get them a small tent and let them sleep outdoors. Challenge them to wade across streams and climb trees. Oh, yes, you probably will have a broken bone sooner or later, but you will also raise confident men. Get those boys off the video games and out of doors, and you (and they) will be blessed! -Pastor Brad
John and I with red fox, raccoon and badger.
Written on February 25, 2026
Posted in Daily Devotions