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You’ve probably heard well-intentioned church people say things like “We need to train our children well—they’re the church of the future” or “Let’s use music that appeals to our kids; after all, they’re tomorrow’s church.”
Not so! Children aren’t the church of tomorrow—they’re the church of today just as much as adults are! There’s no magic moment at which people become old enough to “be the church.” In fact, as we know, Jesus more than once reminded the folks of his day that children are a vital part of his kingdom.
We do well to read and reread 1 Corinthians 12 to remind ourselves what it means to be many parts, but one body—and then to apply Paul’s words to the children among us in a way that nudges us to look for their particular gifts within the body. For example, when a four-year-old kisses the cast on a senior’s broken leg, she’s putting to good use her gifts of mercy, healing, and encouragement. And when a seven-year-old responds to the pastor’s question during the children’s message, he’s using his gift of wisdom and discernment. A ten-year-old’s comments and questions about a divisive denominational issue might cause adults to reconsider their own dogmatic opinions on both sides. You’ve probably got your own stories about similar ways in which the kids in your congregation—and your Sunday school class—have deepened your faith.
Here are some ways you can help kids identify, develop, and use their gifts for the benefit of the body . . . Continue reading »
Reprinted from Dwelling with permission. © Faith Alive Christian Resources
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