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It Takes a Village

An African proverb states: “It takes a village to raise a child,” acknowledging the need for community that stretches beyond the bounds of the nuclear family.

Today more than ever dual-income, busy parents need a network of grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles, neighbors, co-workers, nannies and childcare to supplement their own parenting.

And they need the Church, too.

The gospel of Matthew records a story in which Jesus reprimands his disciples. People were bringing children to Jesus to be blessed and prayed over. The disciples thought their master was too important for such activity and tried to shoo the kids away. But Jesus said:

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)

I’m very proud of how our church welcomes children. Our Children’s Ministry Director, Michelle Heath, and her team—along with countless willing servants—help Good Shepherd to be a wonderful part of that “village” each child needs, that they might grow into a Christ-centered life within the family of God.

Our Vacation Bible School next week is a perfect example. Dozens of you will be present on campus to extend God’s love and to help plant seeds of faith.

As we were reminded in the sermon last Sunday by our guest preacher, Rev. Len Tang, we cannot predict what will happen with these seeds. Many will fall on soil that is not yet ready to respond to God’s love. But a few will find good soil, and we will have the privilege of being a part of God’s special activity in that child’s story.

Regardless, we are called to share the love of Jesus with each one and leave the rest in God’s faithful hands.

So thank you for being a part of the village! And if you’re not yet actively involved, I encourage you to prayerfully reflect on how you could be. If you need some ideas, Michelle or Josh would be delighted to talk to you about partnering in ways large or small within our Children and Youth ministries.

 

In the joy of Christ,

Pastor Paul