Start Your Year on Sure Footing, Day 37 of 58
Reading
Matthew 19:1-15
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2019%3A1-15&version=NIV
Scripture
13 Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.
14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.
Observation
Children’s safety and spiritual health should be of the utmost importance in the church.
Application
How do we create spaces in the church for children to pray and grow in their faith? I love hearing how my own children grow in our church’s Footprints ministry. Our Diaconal Minister, Janet Westlake, who specializes in Children’s Ministry and Christian Education (in general) does a wonderful job meeting children where they are to nurture their faith development. My son wanted to get into a discussion about his favorite comic book, and Mrs. Janet was able to lead him toward a discussion on the power of God and some of his favorite Bible stories.
Prayer
Lord, we thank you for those who heed the call to offer Jesus to our children through teaching, nurture, and faith development. May we be ever vigilant and dedicated to provide safety and serendipity for our children as they walk in the way of Jesus that leads to life. In Your Holy Name I pray. Amen.
Image Credit: Richard Hook, “LET THE CHILDREN COME UNTO ME”