If you can believe it, my family and I once visited a church with a sign that read, “Children Not Allowed.”
Worship had already begun, and we were looking for a place to sit. The church had several entrances to the sanctuary. That sign greeted us at the first door we chose.
Now, I’m sure there was a service for children somewhere. Maybe keeping the sanctuary quiet was important to their production. But when we saw the sign, my wife and I looked at each other and left.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago. During a Sunday message, I mentioned how important it is for all of us to worship together, especially our children. A young boy immediately began shaking his head no.
Apparently, he had a different opinion.
His head had been down. He looked like he was writing or coloring. You might have thought he wasn’t paying attention. But when he shook his head, he helped prove my point.
We don’t always know what someone is hearing or what will stay with them.
Psalm 90 begins by remembering that God has been our dwelling place “in all generations.” Then it reminds us how quickly our lives pass and asks God to teach us to number our days so we may gain wisdom.
That makes me think about the days we get to share.
My young friend may never remember that sermon. Honestly, neither may anyone else. But Sunday after Sunday, he can hear people pray. He can watch someone offer kindness. He can learn that there is room for him, even when he would rather be somewhere else.
And we can learn something from him, too.
We have only so many days to help one another recognize the God who has always been our home. I want our children to know they have a place there, too.
Stay blessed...john
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