January 5, 2011

Praise:
Thank God for the children in your life and for the chance to encourage and inspire a younger person. Thank God for the gift or idea of family. If you’ve never had a real family of your own, thank God for the people he has placed on your path to accept and encourage you.

Reflect:
“People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw 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. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.”
-Mark 10: 13-16

“And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the LORD and with men”
-1Samuel 2:26

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”
-Luke 2:52

Admit (and Ask):
Pray for children by name, and as a parent, if possible, place your hand on their shoulder or head asking for God to protect and watch over them, and that they grow into adults of integrity and wisdom who serve God and others. Ask for strength. Ask for wisdom so you may be an example to the younger people in your life. Even if you don’t have all the answers, stay curious, be open to being amazed by God and ask for help to trust God more.

Yield:
Surrender your children (or children on whom you have an influence) and family to God. Commit to be open to opportunities to learn more about God, and to teach your children about him.

Amen

Next: January 5- Seniors, grandparents or 55plus