How can we ensure our church welcomes children as Jesus did in Mark 10:16? Seeing Children Through Jesus’ Eyes Mark 10:16: “And He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them, and blessed them.” • Jesus didn’t keep children at arm’s length; He drew them close. • He offered physical affirmation—embracing and laying hands on them. • He spoke blessing, imparting spiritual value and dignity. • The moment was public, teaching adults that children belong at the very center of kingdom life. The Heart Posture We Must Cultivate • Value: Children are not the future church; they are present members of Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 12:18-22). • Humility: “Therefore whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:4). • Protection: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones” (Matthew 18:10). • Blessing: Speak life over them as Jesus did—affirming God’s purposes (Numbers 6:24-26). Practical Steps for the Whole Congregation 1. Warm Welcome • Train greeters to recognize and greet children by name. • Provide child-sized signage, artwork, and seating that signal “You belong here.” 2. Integrate into Worship • Include a short, child-friendly Scripture reading or song each service. • Encourage children to participate as ushers, musicians, or Scripture readers (Psalm 8:2). 3. Intentional Teaching • Offer age-appropriate Bible classes grounded in Scripture’s authority (2 Timothy 3:15). • Equip parents with weekly take-home discussion guides (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). 4. Safe, Nurturing Environment • Screen and train all children’s workers; implement clear child-protection policies (Ephesians 6:4). • Maintain clean, inviting classrooms stocked with engaging, Christ-centered materials. 5. Regular Blessing Moments • Create space in services for the congregation to extend hands and bless the children, following Jesus’ pattern. • Encourage families to speak blessings at home (Proverbs 18:21). 6. Intergenerational Relationships • Pair older saints with families for prayer and support (Titus 2:3-6). • Schedule service projects that children and adults can do together. 7. Celebrate Milestones • Publicly recognize spiritual markers—baptisms, Scripture memorization, first Bible, mission involvement. • Host an annual “Blessing Sunday” modeled after Mark 10:16. Measuring a Welcoming Culture • Listen: Ask children what makes them feel loved at church; adjust accordingly. • Observe: Are children lingering after services because they feel at home? • Assess: Are volunteers eager to serve, showing that ministry to children is prized rather than obligatory? • Pray and Recalibrate: Regularly seek the Lord for renewed compassion and wisdom (James 1:5). Living Out the Blessing When our congregation consistently draws children close, lays hands of affirmation on them, and speaks God’s blessing—just as Jesus did—we embody the kingdom culture He modeled, making church a place where the youngest among us encounter His love firsthand. |
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