Saturday 05 November 2022

Psalm 103

Background

As the week concludes I am drawn to the words of Jesus concerning the most humble and often overlooked members of society – children. From the time we were very young we were taught that Jesus loves little children. Later we learned that Jesus admired the faith of children, even if it was found in the lives of adults. To preclude a child from the blessings of God or the teachings of Christ is a very serious offence. The kingdom belongs to the children.

Could it be that the way the Church has approached ministry to children was just a bit too grown up? What I mean by that is whenever I have planned ministry to children it was with a sort of hook or very enticing theme designed by adults. It is likely these were very experienced adults who were trained in early childhood education and Bible storytelling, but aimed towards fulfilling the needs of adults who would relay the themes and teachings.

The best ministry to children is spontaneous yet prepared, fun yet true to the spirit of Christianity, and above all, ready for anything. It strikes me that Jesus was trying to tell us that very thing, how the instruction of children in matters of faith needs to be grounded in a very real relationship with him. Learning about Jesus is one thing. Learning of him is another matter altogether.

Of all the readings this week, it could be these few verses that say the most about having a faith that is long-lasting and uncomplicated. Even though the disciples would have shortened the children's time with Jesus, the best source of faith is the one they could personally possess. May we adults be as blessed to know where our priorities should lie.

To Ponder:

• Think back to your childhood and identify any milestones of faith that stand out to you. What do you remember that made them so memorable?
• If you have children, what would you like to teach them about your own faith and why it matters to you?
• As we are all God’s children, whether or not we have a personal connection to God, how should we live in a way that honours both God and the status of God’s children? 

Prayer

Jesus, as the song says, listen to your children praying, and correct our selfish desires for glory or power. Help us to believe and live as children would, in the simplest ways, without pretence or falseness.