Thoughts on VBS

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    As most of you well know, we are prepping and planning for our annual VBS! It is so beautiful to see the children having fun as they learn the Bible and interact with each other and the leaders every year.  As a church, it is lovely to watch so many work together for a common mission: sharing the gospel message.

    The Bible has much to say about children.  Luke 18 tells us that Jesus had a very special spot in his heart for children.  He gives a command and a clue about the beauty of His Kingdom:

Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God."   

Luke 18:16

    Service to children is service to Jesus.  He calls us to serve and love these little ones, because He loves them!  Torey reminded us of this at VBS training this year and this truth lived out is what separates true Christians from imposters. 

    As a church, we are blessed with leaders and members who love our children well.  I am so very thankful for that. My thoughts as we walk through this coming week are to encourage us to remember that service to children is a mission that each and every one of us is called to.  It doesn't matter whether God has chosen to give a child to your home or not.  It doesn't matter if you like children or not.  It doesn't matter if you know the "right" things to say to a child or not.  God has called us all to love, welcome and serve children, because they are representatives of His kingdom.  When we surrender to His call to minister to children, He provides the resources and knowledge necessary for each situation. All we need to do is open ourselves up to serve. 

    All children are gifts from God, no matter the circumstances of their birth or their home situation.  Each one is a life that Jesus died for, in desperate need of salvation. As we put on those lenses, our hearts change and His love can fill us.  

    This devotional is short, but written with a thankful heart for the love and service that will be shown to these precious children this coming week.  May you be blessed as you follow Jesus' example and show His love to them.

Soli Deo Gloria!

💓 Heather Sparks💓

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