Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there. -Matthew 19:13-15
“Mommy, ‘member when Miss Bethany read us stories and we played with our friends and the toys at church? I miss church. Is the sickness over? Can we go again?” The Pandemic is dragging on and my four year old is missing her Christian community! When I read today’s daily Bible reading about Jesus and the little children it seemed like more than a coincidence--What are you trying to tell me, Lord?
I confess, teaching Sunday School is a challenge for me. A group of small children, craft supplies, and an ever increasing toy mess stresses me out, haha! And I mean: what do they really learn in Pre-K Sunday school? Isn’t just playing at home or with our “pod” family the same--it’s the same kids in a different space--isn’t that good enough? Apparently not!
Today, I feel the need to sit and think about the reality and development of Christian community among children. How can I help foster that even through a challenging situation like the isolation of the pandemic? Are there other groups of people who experience this isolation for other reasons, and how can I support them and their children when the pandemic ends?
Any ideas?
A Prayer: Lord, I confess that I have been thinking a lot about myself, please open my eyes to the needs of others. Father, help me to be aware of the needs of children and give me ideas on how to help them know You and spend time with You. Please give me wisdom on how to do this. Please bless the children that I love with your Spirit and Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.