This weekend the children discovered that they are important to Jesus and that Jesus wants to have a relationship and a friendship with them. We also taught the children the way to build a relationship with Jesus.

As we continue to learn about who Jesus was as a person and about Jesus’ love for us, this weekend lesson was crucial in learning more about who Jesus is to us today. Our Bible account is about Jesus’ disciples turning away the children because the disciples thought Jesus didn’t have time for children. Surely they were surprised when Jesus called the children back so he could love and bless them! Jesus’ actions showed the disciples then, and us today, just how special children are.

God loves us with a great big love, and so does Jesus. It is important for your children to experience that love as much as they can. Children can learn to understand God’s unconditional love by experiencing love from the adults in their lives. Show your children you care for them by listening to them and involving them in family plans. You can help create an environment where all children feel accepted and included. Praise your children when you see them including others.

Another important aspect of this Bible account is what Jesus said to the disciples: “Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it” (Mark 10:15). A child’s faith is amazing and, as a parent of children, you know this. Allow yourself to learn from your children. You don’t have to know all of the answers. If a question is asked and you don’t know the answer, don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know, what do you think?” Show your children that you value their thoughts and opinions. Learn about God’s great big love together!

So this week take time to get involved with your children. It’s okay to get down on the floor and play games or to take a role in acting out a Bible story. At this time in their lives, children are establishing their own identities. They no longer look to adults for a lot of instruction. Instead, they look for support and encouragement. Help encourage your children to step out on their own and become unique individuals, loved and blessed by God!

“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God”. Matthew 16:16