Are we teaching them to see 42?
Ponder this…. As a parent, would you allow your small child to go to the bus stop on a frigid winter morning with no coat, simply because they chose not to wear a coat? Would you allow your small child to decide what to eat every night even if the choice was always Lucky Charms and Twinkies? Would you allow your small child to ride in the front seat (or any seat for that matter) of your car with no seatbelt because they chose not to wear it? Would you allow your small child to mow the lawn simply because he likes lawnmowers?
Of course not!
You make them wear a coat (and mittens, hats, and scarf). You chose what they eat and don’t eat for dinner. You don’t move the car one inch until they are safely buckled in. Why? Because this is not a democracy; it’s parenthood! And by being a parent, you are the primary teacher and role model for you children.
So why is it that some parents feel that they will let their children decide whether they go to church? Just sayin!!!
This Sunday, there were approximately two dozen kids who came forward for the children’s sermon at worship. We routinely see this number (or more) which excites everybody in the church; especially our older congregants. Why? Seeing this many kids and families in church inspires hope.
When I look at these kids in worship, I see 42 at work! I see loving parenting that exposes their children to the One who gives us life, the universe, and everything. I also see a church family teaching and modeling what it means to see 42 and experience the Spirit of 42 in the room. And you also see about 200 people worshiping 42!
So this Sunday, when your kids moan and grown about getting out of bed, show them how to be a Christian and take them to church! You and they will find that 42 has been waiting for you all along!
Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray… Jesus said,
“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”
And he laid his hands on them and went away.
Matthew 19:13-15 esv
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