Kids In Discipleship
It’s that time of year again. Summer is starting to wind down and before we know it the school year will begin. I was reminded of this as I came home from work this week and my daughter was sporting her new backpack and lunchbox in our living room. In a few weeks, we will settle into the routine of homework and early bedtimes. While there is a collective moan from children everywhere, I sit here excited about the new beginnings coming this fall, and I’m more excited than usual. Why am I so pumped for this fall? I’m excited to see our families fill up the church building and the energy that comes with it, and I’m thrilled for our new Wednesday night ministry discipleship program. Let me share just a few reasons why I am eager to launch the Kids in Discipleship program.
1. Scripture Memory
Nothing makes me happier than seeing children memorize Scripture. Psalm 119:11 tells us to “hide God’s word in our hearts.” This commandment is one of the core foundations of the Kids in Discipleship program. Not only will kids learn what verses mean but they will discuss how these truths can apply to their lives. Each week, our entire ministry will focus on one key verse. Families with multiple children of various ages will memorize the same verse. The goal is that each family can memorize Scripture together during their worship and devotion time. At the beginning of the year, parents will receive a calendar with all the verses their children will learn. I want to challenge you as parents to join with your children in memorizing these verses and “hiding God’s Word” in the hearts of your entire family.
2. Missions
Each week will have a component focusing on missions. It is our desire for children to embrace sharing God’s Word with others as a part of being Christ’s disciple. We want our children to be disciples who make disciples. Kids will be exposed to what God is doing in different parts of the world. Missionaries and mission organizations, from our church, will share their stories about how God is using them to reach the nations. They will learn about missionaries supported through the North American Mission Board and International Mission Board. Not only will our kids learn about missions, but they will also have opportunities to engage in missions. Throughout the year, kids will complete mission projects to ensure they are not only hearers but participants in what God is doing in the lives of people.
3. Connection with Amazing Adult Volunteers
We have some of the best teen and adult volunteers! This ministry presents the opportunity for parents to widen the circle of trusted influence in the discipleship of their children. This connection will take place through dynamic, large group, age-graded teaching, as well as intimate small groups. The hope for small groups is for relationships to form that will help aid children in their relationships with Christ. Our volunteers will pray for your children and family throughout the week. Discipleship does not happen apart from parents but is a partnership with the church. Small group leaders will remain connected with parents as a source of encouragement and support.
4. TONS OF FUN
As you get to know me better, you will see that I love to have fun! Kids in Discipleship incorporates fun activities to reinforce the lessons each night. We will also have game time where kids compete with others in exciting games (helping them to release all of that pent-up energy from sitting in a classroom all day.) Kids will have so much fun they will be begging to come back next week.
I cannot wait to kick off Kids in Discipleship this fall. Our team has already started praying and planning for the new year. I don’t want to keep all of this excitement to myself though! You too can catch the excitement. If you desire to be a part of what God is doing in NAOBC Kids Ministry on Wednesday nights, let me know. Email me or stop by and see me at the kids’ ministry desk on Sunday mornings. Also, keep an eye out for registration opening up at the beginning of August.
