Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
I’ve just finished placing my signature on the inside name plate of the eight Bibles we will present in worship on Sunday, September 13 to children entering 3rd grade. What a joy!
It’s a joy to know these children and support their parents in the Christian nurture of those entrusted into our care. We made that pledge to God and their parents when these children were dedicated a while back in worship.
And it’s a special joy to imagine how the scriptures will shape and form the faith of these children!
The scriptures share wonderful stories about God and Jesus and all God’s people. The stories point to a creative God, a loving Savior and the power of God’s spirit to create a people and make all things new. Its pages contain lessons of prodigal sons and daughters, lost sheep, lost coins and the One who cares for not only the birds of the air, but knows intimately the number of hairs on our head. In time, they will learn ( I think the pedagogical term is inculcate) the long arc of God’s story from creation to redemption and more.
Of course, Sunday School teachers and helpers will have immediate opportunity to help teach the Bible to these children. Yet, more than we realize, it is the congregation as both individuals and a body that will teach. We teach in the way we model and embody the kind of faith community God desires for us to be.
Children pick this up as they …
- are included in acts of worship
- hear their names spoken by caring adults
- see gifts of money placed in an offering plate
- are embraced when they are hurting or are confused
- see how those they know to be different are treated
- get to sing songs of faith with fully grown adults
- have a towel placed around them after baptism
- participate in a youth ministry supported by those whose children are all grown up
- witness those doing the hundreds of small things every church requires
When these eight children receive their Bibles on Sunday, September 13, we will know why “Your word is a lamp my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119: 105) And one other thing. We will experience joy!
