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To Those Who Bring Small Children to Worship!
To Those Who Bring Small Children to Worship!
David Rile of the Mars Hill Church of Christ wrote the following article. Sometimes I hold on to articles, bulletins, stories, etc. for a few weeks, after they cross my desk, just in case some of you saw the same thing at the same time. Other times, however, I borrow them immediately, regardless how many have seen them, because they provide the perfect thought at a time when someone may need it. This article is one of the latter.
Last Sunday I had the privilege of being in worship with my daughter and 6-month-old granddaughter. I did not have to preach, so the experience was different for me. One thing that really struck me was how uncomfortable my daughter was as a parent with a small child in worship. It should not be this way!
I want you – you mothers and/or fathers – to know just how encouraging you are to so many! The older woman who feels alone smiles as she watched you struggle to corral your child. She has been there before and would gladly go there again. She knows how hard it can be, but the sight of young parents and small children in worship brightens her day!
You give hope to the old man who seems so grouchy and is always talking about how children today have no respect. But he sees you and thinks maybe the church isn’t doomed after all. You make his day by showing your love for God and by bringing your restless child to worship!
You are a joy to the preacher! Go ahead…ask any preacher you want! I have had so many young parents try to apologize for their child’s behavior during the sermon. Honestly, preachers do not hear them. And, if we do, we are just thrilled you are faithful in worship and for the example you set for others.
Then there is everybody else! Your presence and concern for your family are such an encouragement to everyone!
Oh sure, there will always be those who have the confused notion that reverence means complete silence – it doesn’t. There may be those who complain occasionally they had trouble hearing – let them move. Sure, there may be one who says children are a distraction – but he does not have trouble focusing at the ballgame. I remember that parents brought their children to Jesus. Surely, they were squirming and maybe even crying. This was likely the reason the disciples rebuked them. It is also possible the disciples felt that the children were too young to understand any blessing Jesus would give them or the prayer He would say for them. Let me remind you…the disciples rebuked the parents, but Jesus rebuked the disciples (Matthew 19:13-15). Then He said, “Suffer the little children, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
So, I want to encourage you. Keep bringing your children to worship! You are such an encouragement, and you are starting your children’s life off the way you should. As hard as it might be for you as a parent, keep doing what you are doing! Don’t worry about any look you may be given by someone who doesn’t understand that if you don’t hear crying the church is dying! I love you and I love your children!
