Time, Time, Time

Adults moving around the room with their children. There is a fun buzz of young voices involved in activity. Business, but a good busy. Parents and preschool children doing activities together and talking about what God has created. Cookies were iced and extra icing was eaten or saved for later. There is nothing like sitting with mom and dad, snacking on cookies and milk while listening to the story of creation. Thank you for all who attended out Starry Night event last Friday and especially for those Preschool Leaders and teachers who made the night happen. Families had a great time making creation crafts together and being reminded of God’s goodness. I don’t know about you, but my fondest memories of childhood do not include lots of stuff. My fondest memories include card games, ice skating, and the story of the birth of Jesus while with my family. Kids like stuff, there is no doubt, but they like time with mom and dad a whole lot more. As we move into the holiday season, there will be a temptation to fill our moments with activity and shopping. Let me encourage you to carve out some family time as well, if you haven’t already. Stuff will be forgotten, but the moments spent together as a family will last a lifetime.

Does God deal with you on areas of life you need to improve? Lately He has been dealing with me on an issue. I feel bitter-sweet about these times. On one hand I hate the feeling of disappointing God and His revelation of my shortcomings. It can be painful. On the other hand I am thrilled God reveals these shortcomings to me, because in doing so, it reminds me of His love for me and that He is still molding and shaping me. When God points out needed areas of growth I become a better person; at least I think that is God’s plan. So, I continue to grow, and in doing so will continue to be reminded by God that there are things in my life that don’t please Him. On the up side, He reminds me when I do please Him as well. This is love in action.
On another note, Faith in Action Sunday was a great day, and a great tie in to what we will be studying this month in Kids Quest. In November we will be looking at Cooperation – working together to do more that you can do alone. Our memory verse will be Ecclesiastes 4:9. One way we will help our students put action to this study is through Operation Christmas Child. Your child will receive information this Sunday on how your family can participate. I know that not all families can participate, but if you can, I hope you will. I’m looking forward to Sunday already.