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When I was eight years old, my Sunday School teacher was Mrs. Dora Owens. She was a comfortably plump lady with gray hair and eyeglasses. With the perception of a child, I got the impression that she spent the other six days of the week cooking, reading her Bible, and preparing our Sunday School lesson. It amazed me that she took the time and interest to teach eight-year-old girls every week instead of participating in a class with people of her own age group along with Mr. Owens. While I can’t remember any of the stories she told us to illustrate her lessons, I do remember that she held us enthralled with everything she related and seemed genuinely interested in us. Although it is not easy to hold the attention of girls of that age, she never had any difficulty doing so. And yet, I don’t think she had any professional training as a teacher.

Jesus had that same ability, and it amazed people when they heard Him teach. They knew he was not only a carpenter but the son of a carpenter as well. As such, they understood that he had no earthly professional training as a teacher, and yet, He clearly was one. While his knowledge amazed everyone, His teaching methods and his insightful storytelling exceeded the ritualistic recitation of that time. He not only captivated adults with his ability to relate spiritual concepts but he also captured and held the attention of small children.

Some people may dismiss small children as being unimportant, but both Jesus and Mrs. Owens thought they were worthy of their time and attention.

Thought for the Day: Ministry to children is an important calling that can change the world.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for those that take the time and make the effort to prepare Sunday School lessons that capture the attention and imagination of children. Give them the time and energy to continue doing so. Please show me how to help them in whatever way I can. In the name of Jesus, amen.

RELEVANT BIBLE PASSAGE

Mark 10:13-16 (NIV) 13) People were bring little children to Jesus, for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14) When Jesus sw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15) Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”  16) And he took the children in his arms, placed his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.