We have many great opportunities during the summer to reach the children and families in our area.
Methods have changed over the years, but the message has hopefully remained the
same. We want to introduce children to God, the Bible, and Jesus. We use many
creative ways in doing so. Somewhere during all the crafts, games, songs, and
skits, the great stories of the Bible are told. I dare say that is where most
people receive their basic theology. Songs tell us about Jesus’ love, letting
our little lights shine, and of course the B-I-B-L-E song creates lasting
impressions for all of us. Many start their Christian walks by making decisions
to follow Christ during these types of events.
A problem develops as we grow older, when
our faith and Bible knowledge stays “childlike”. The stories we heard about
Noah and the Ark, Jonah and the whale, baby Moses, and Jesus’ miracles are wonderful,
but as we mature as believers our understanding of God’s Word must grow too. A
deeper understanding of the Word of God can only occur if we spend time
hearing, reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating on it. The account of
Jesus feeding over 5,000 people is one of these stories. We learn as children
about Jesus’ love, using a little boy’s lunch, and the great miracle that
followed. By digging deeper into this passage we can learn Biblical truths that
give us direction, and help us grow in Christ.
We can learn
lessons in giving, receiving, and blessings when we are doing God’s work. First
we must be willing to give wholeheartedly to the work of the Lord. The boy in this story gave
all he had to Jesus. In his eyes and those around him it sure didn’t seem like
much, but because of his faithfulness, and belief that Christ can truly do all
things, something unexpected was about to occur. In our lives, we may feel that
what we have to give isn’t much, but when we give it all to Him, heaven
rejoices.
What in your life have you not turned over to the Lord for His
kingdom’s work?
Be wise today and always - He is waiting for you.
