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 Bringing Jesus to Our Children
by Phil Ware
Davi wasn’t fortunate to be born into a family of luxury. Nor was he born into a family of position. But as his father Ben often said, “Son, you have been born to a family of great heritage, tradition, and vocation.” To no one in particular, Ben continued his well-rehearsed litany of distinction: “ My son, while most city folks don’t realize it today, shepherding is the most noble of vocations! Just remember Abraham, Moses, and the great King David! Son, you have a royal name and you will one day join in the work of your namesake among the flock.” When it came time for Davi’s mitzvah, he family didn’t have much of a gift for him. However, Ben decided to let him do what no other young man was allowed to do. He would join Ben and the other men in their family as they took their herds up in the far hills for several days. Their flocks could feed and fatten on the rich and tender grass. None of the men could ever forget their second night in those hills. They took turns at watch with a partner. Davi was scheduled to stand watch with his father. With such a large gathering of sheep, they had to be alert to the predators drawn near by the scent and sound of the sheep. So one would sing softly and the sheep would draw near; the other shepherd would quietly circle the gathered flocks, to keep them tightly bunched while protecting them from predators. Suddenly, the sky exploded with sound and light. Ben and Davi were shocked that the sheep didn’t startle. Sights and sounds of glory filled the sky. Then there was the amazing news delivered by angels. Shepherds descended from the line of King David would be the first on earth to welcome the newborn Messiah! With great pride, the shepherds decided to take the journey to Bethlehem and welcome this Child of God. But two had to remain with the flock! Who would have to stay? Who would get to go? Davi was sure he would have to stay. He was, after all, the youngest. He had no say. He carried no pull. The oldest and the wisest would go. He was sure of it.
None of us today really knows the story of the shepherds who welcomed Jesus at his birth. I do know, however, that the statement above is true. There is no greater gift that a parent can give a child than helping that child know Jesus. We must bring Jesus to our children. This is our first and primary task. Through music, through tuck-in time, through Bible story books, through dynamic children’s classes and activities at church, through ministry, through meal time discussions, through movie resources, through holiday holy times with family, and through the symbols in our houses, let’s bring Jesus to our children. As you finish off your Christmas shopping and try to check off those last few gifts on your children’s wish list, please make sure that you don’t forget the most important one you can give. This year, and every year that you have them with you, bring Jesus to your children.
Author: Phil Ware Publication Date: December 16, 2002 |
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