Created to Worship: Children

Laughter is something I sometimes forget to do  because I'm seriously caught up in the routine of my day or focused too much on completing the task at hand.  However, working with children, or just observing my own, I thank God that He never fails to allow me to overhear their laughter. And it seemingly happens just the time when I need it most.  Their laughter is contagious! It spreads quickly and without delay among those in close proximity.  It can take you to a place of joy and happiness in an instant even if just for a moment. It's like a welcomed ray of sunshine in a dreary place, or refreshing water in a dry land. There's something about how a child views life that is instructive and life giving.  The Bible compares it to good medicine.  Expert say it contributes to the very  restoration or preservation of our bodily health and rigor. That's why when you hear the sound of children laughing wildly and excitedly turn to give a "look see" becau...

Deuteronomy 6 is the go to scripture when it comes to understanding God's plan for spiritual formation and growth in children. This passage of scripture clearly delegates the primary task to parents. After all, children spend more time with their family on a daily basis than they do with us on Sunday mornings,Wednesday nights or other designated times. Home is where life really happens. According to Barna Research Group (Ventura California) nine out of ten parents accept this responsibility for their child's spiritual growth but struggle with effectiveness. They went on to report that few parents admitted they don't spend any time during the typical week interacting with their child on spiritual matters. Research suggests that it's not so much that parents are unwilling to provide more substantive training to their children as they are ill-equipped to do the work and have no accountability standards. What a window of opportunity!  Consider the many creative way...