Dear Church Family,
This is my favorite passage from Scripture about the high priority that God assigns to children: “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them, but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” (Luke 10:13-16).
Let me explain this passage briefly, and then make an important application regarding our church.
Many parents heard that Jesus was in their community, and they had a desire to bring their little ones into the presence of the Messiah. The disciples of Jesus, apparently thinking that these children were not important as the things that the disciples were focused on, made a poor decision and attempted to block these parents from bringing their children to Jesus. Our Lord observed this and became righteously indignant at His disciples (yes, it’s a strong word used here–Jesus was very displeased!).
Jesus made this a teaching moment. He shut down all other activities and devoted some special time for these little ones. In fact, our Lord picked them up “and blessed them.” Jesus then told His disciples to learn from the little ones, who know better than many adults how to depend upon Him with simple faith. It is easy to see from this passage that our Lord delighted in children. I’ve tried to imagine the scene when He lifted them in His arms–so very moving and beautiful!
Now to a very specific application: we need help in our nursery department.
If children are an important priority for our Lord, then we must conclude that investing time in the ministries serving the needs of children (and the young parents who are raising them) are
important priority for His church. I ask our healthy church members (with healthy family members) to search your hearts, and determine if you are willing to be part of a nursery rotation. We need more volunteers to take the pressure off the select few who are carrying the load at present.
First Baptist Batesville is experiencing an encouraging trend with an influx of babies and children. Let’s hear our Lord’s words and heart: “let the little children come to Me.”
To get involved and join this special team of servants, simply contact Shea Garner at 662-934-2565 or lularoesheagarner@gmail.com
In Christian love,
John