Jesus knows us... so we get to know Him

Hey Bridge family!

I want to share something with you. I have learned more about Jesus from teaching children than from any other study in my Christian walk. Lori and I have served in children’s ministry, on and off (but mostly on), for over 30 years. I can’t begin to describe how much more I now understand about Jesus and His Word—the Bible—than when I started. There’s a good reason for this. In Mark 10:15 (NLT), Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” When we help children know Christ, He lets us experience their childlike wonder and innocence, just as He intends. Their questions and thoughts have often led me to reflect on the mystery of God.

I can’t speak for Lori, but I felt totally ill-equipped to teach kids when I began. Maybe you feel the same way when you look at the weekly Dig In @ Home we provide or when you hear the pastor challenge you to share the gospel with your kids. I get it, but we can’t let that stop us from doing what we, as parents, are called to do. Here are a few ideas to remember.

· Keep it real: there is no expectation that your discipleship time will become a church service. That’s why the dinner table is such a great opportunity. It doesn’t have to be every night. Just look for one or two times during the week to share the gospel. See where God leads you from there.

· Keep it natural: discipleship is a way of life, not a program. Our discussions should be natural, not forced. Look for themes in movies, shows, and music. Talk about how they relate to the gospel. Maybe try this: read your children C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Hint: Aslan is a type of Christ.

· Keep the wonder: share with your children the things of Christ that amaze you, even if you can’t explain them. Talk about how Jesus fed all those people or calmed the seas. Imagine what it must have been like to be there. Let your kids build on that curiosity. Build on each other’s curiosity; it could be fun.

It’s an excellent opportunity to get to know Jesus with your family. I, for one, wish I had had someone share this with me. My prayer is that you’ll make the most of the time you have. It doesn’t last as long as you think.

Remember, it’s never too late to engage. As long as your child is at home, you have an excellent opportunity to share the Bible together. Focus on exploring its stories, discussing applications to daily life, and nurturing deeper conversations as a family. This makes faith an exciting and meaningful adventure. God Bless, and I hope to see your family on Sunday.

Pastor Bob