Children are Worth the Cost
And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.
Mark 10:13-16
“Seen and Not heard.” “Underfoot.” “Stop bothering me.” “Why are you asking me so many questions?”
Adults tend to be dismissive of young children. Not many parents would admit it, but there are probably times you have said something to the effect of one of the above statements. It is important to understand that God values the life of each person and of each young person. Value to family, society, vocation, church and life in general increases with… children.
Note the following observations of the scene with Jesus and the children in Mark 10.
- Jesus made time for kids.
- Jesus gave attention to kids.
- Jesus taught kids.
- Jesus valued kids.
Many Christian churches are in the middle of busy summer season with Bible Clubs, Vacation Bible Schools, camps, and Community Kids events. This is good. As Kids Ministries unfold in your church you do not want to be like the disciples in this passage of Scripture. They did not see the need for children’s ministry. Jesus corrected them and then demonstrated how important kids are. Avoid complaining about normal church services being adjusted for kids ministry. Watch out for being critical of anyone assisting in youth ministry or children’s ministry. Lots of time, money, and effort are given to children’s ministry. Be a person who participates in this. Here are 3 ways to help.
Give. Make yourself available to help. Cleaning, teaching, registering, assisting are all areas that could use some help. Bring cookies or other items that are asked for. Children’s ministries cost a lot. Give special financial gifts to help cover some of the expenses of a big VBS or camp.
Encourage. Tell others who are serving how well they are doing. Offer words of encouragement. Give positive feedback about progress. For example, our church was thrilled when I announced recently that children were pre-registered early from a flyer that was handed out the previous Saturday. There are other ways to show support and encouragement. Find a way in your context and encourage others to keep making a difference ministering to children.
Pray. Pray for children to be saved and for families to be touched with the Gospel. Pray the church grows and that new members are added as a product of the children’s ministry. It can happen. God can. We should pray. Thank the Lord for the children. Bless them like Jesus did.
Kids today are like the ones who met Jesus years ago; they are looking for more than what they see in life. Children are worth the cost. Be a person who helps to introduce children to Jesus.
EDC Christian 