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Oahe Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) Right now, I am writing this as we are in the midst of an exciting Church week - specifically it is Vacation Bible School week. This year we are once again involved in an ecumenical endeavor with the Congregational United Church of Christ in Pierre and they are gladly hosting all the fun that is being had by a good number of children and youth. And as I am reflecting on the Vacation Bible School and all that we are doing it brings to mind yet again what a vibrant ministry it is working with children and youth in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and the salvation that He alone brings to this world.
Jesus Christ’s central Message to all of us endures still today, and for all time. As we are involved with Vacation Bible School, and this year’s themed “Galactic Blast”, we find ourselves directly in the midst of some of the most important work that Jesus did. How do I know this? Quite simply because Jesus Himself said as it is recorded in Mark 10:14-16 (Message Translation - cf. Matthew 18:3-5; Luke 18:16 &17), "Don't push these children away. Don't ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." Then, gathering the children up in his arms, He laid His hands of blessing on them. The context for Jesus saying this was because the Disciples were carrying on about themselves - worried about their own matters, and probably thinking the children were a distraction; but Jesus’ reminder to His disciples, and still to all of us today, is the importance of our covenant with God being for everyone, young or old. Small children belong; and most importantly children and youth have a place in the Kingdom of God every bit as much as the brightest and most accomplished adult. Small and very young children, I believe, typically know that they have nothing to bring before their elders; so they do everything to try and learn and grow. And I think this was exactly Jesus’ point as He would have each of us reflect, and model, as true believers in Him: we are called to exercise a personal faith knowing that we cannot bring anything to God but God wants us to freely receive. We receive God’s gift of grace and love. And at Vacation Bible School we do a lot of that! Receiving and sharing God’s grace and love. Please join us this summer, as you are able, for various activities and worship to the glory of our God.
Sincerely, in our Master, Jesus
Christ’s service, |
