Vacation Bible School

This is the theme for our church’s Vacation Bible School this year.

It’s been a wonderful week.

Of course there have been some moments, mainly a scraped knee or two, but overall it’s been a blessing to all.

Personally, I’ve enjoyed watching the progression of the children, teens, and adults spending time together, each day relationships are built.

It has reminded me of the countless Vacation Bible School programs I attended as a child.

It has brought to mind the children’s church, Sunday school, and Children’s Camps we’ve been a part of as our children were growing up.

Being on the adult side of things, I know how much work goes into all this.

I’m thanking the Lord for the hearts of those who volunteer to give children these experiences.

I’m praising God for His provision for it all.

I’m praying for today, as the week comes to a close.

Praying these children and their families will be edified and blessed by Jesus and His followers.

For we know Jesus loves children and we want each one of them to know that as well.

Matthew 19:14 KJV — But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for this week. Thank You for each and every single child You have brought to this VBS. Please help each of these little ones to know You and to understand how much You love them. Please hold them in Your arms and carry them through each day that they might grow into adults who follow You with their whole heart. Please protect them from the enemy and the snares of this life. Please help them to understand the difference between good and evil, that they may walk in truth and Your light. Lord, bring these children up in Your Word and speak clearly to their hearts. Thank You for each and every one of these children. Lord Jesus, please help those who are finishing up today. Grant them understanding and speak clearly to them. Lord, please supply all that is required, especially for those who are feeling extra tired after this long week. Lord Jesus, I praise Your holy name and thank You for all You have done. Your ways are perfect and Your salvation is life. I love You, Jesus. Amen.

…as little children

Matthew 18:1 NKJV — At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”

It’s easy to stand on the outside of this and judge the disciples.

To wonder what was going on in their hearts to ask this question.

But no matter the questions which run through one’s mind when reading this account, there is a wonderful gift of truth in Jesus’answer.

Matthew 18:2-3 NKJV — Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”

What does it mean to become as a little child?

Watching our granddaughter with her Daddy brings a good example.

She looks forward to time spent together.

She runs to meet him when he comes home from work.

When something is scary she throws up her arms, eyes upon his face, waiting for his arms to enfold her.

When she’s hurting she buries her head under his chin.

When he holds her hand, she follows.

That is the relationship.

One of complete trust, complete dependence upon God.

Of course, our granddaughter has moments of self, when she needs to be removed from error.

She has times of misunderstanding and frustration.

But these never bar her from trusting in her Daddy.

It never dampens her joy at being with him.

She doesn’t hold a grudge.

Yes, I want to have that relationship with Jesus.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for loving us so completely. Lord, help my heart to learn to be as a little child, to love my Heavenly Father with trust and joy. Lord Jesus, thank You for this truth. Expound it to our hearts and minds this morning. Help us to learn to love You as little children. Thank You. Amen.