eternal invitation...

I printed, signed, folded, stuffed, sealed, stamped and mailed yet another invitation to the families of the church. This was the annual come to Vacation Bible School letter.

We would have over 30 children if they all came but they don't. I've diligently worked to understand why so many of our children already on our church rolls don't come to Sunday school, worship, and other special events on a regular basis.

Is it our planning and execution of events at church?

That's a big no. We have carefully planned well rounded meaningful events and lead each one with enthusiasm. We have detailed child safety policies, caring and trained leaders.

Are the children bored when they do come?

No, no, no! The children who do come always feel included and consistently say they want to come back.

So if it is not something lacking with the church then what is the missing puzzle piece?

Honestly some people don't want to hear this answer. So if you are one of those people you might want to click to another blog right about now and continue to live in denial.

I've discerned the following about parents of young children and youth during my 20 years of ministry:

1. Some parents never tapped into the meaning of living faith, the value of living faith with others. This is another way of saying some parents think faith is a nice thing, but really don't see faith as a priority for themselves......so it must not be that important for their children.

2. Some parents cave into their children.
"I don't want to force my child to go."
"I'll let them make the choice to live faith the way they feel is best."

Interesting that when it comes to something like English most parents aren't so willing to step back and allow freedom of choice. I can hear some say. "Well English is something a person can't live without." How is living life without faith going to help your child?

3. Some parents can't let go of their own story. Your story of bad memories when it comes to church does not mean that this will automatically be your child's story. Let go of your baggage and let your children have a chance to discover the beauty and meaning of faith as lived out in a church.


I've watched countless numbers of parents fret over their young children. They look for the best pre-school, want the best car seat, don't want their child to suck their thumb in public.....etc., etc. etc. But what about the things that matter most....like helping your child learn a sense of hope, and compassion for others.

Eventually each parent will bump into the harsh reality that their child will need something more than a really good car seat. When a child grows into a young adult they will long for meaning in life.

In search for meaning....your child will turn in many directions....not all of them will be safe, good decisions. Then you will come to someone like me and say, "What am I going to do? Can you help me?"

Well, for the past 20 years I've been here. Where have you been? Where are you now?

I have been trained, I do my homework when it comes to planning and when your child does come to church I and others embrace them as if they are the most important person in the world. The children who grow up with this kind of nurture and care will be the young adults who have a deep sense of hope and compassion.