Sunday Sentiments

 Yesterday, at the end of the Saturday Six, I shared a quick memory about a Sunday School teacher I had who encouraged those of us in her class to pray out loud on Sunday mornings at the start of class. It was wildly uncomfortable. We were all shy kids who didn't want to feel stupid in front of our peers, but our teacher was great about helping prayer feel more normal. 

She modeled it for us with her own words and was always quick to encourage us with every attempt we made. And now I appreciate so much what she did. She made a huge difference in my life with something as simple as teaching me to pray in front of others.

It made me think of the host of people who volunteered their time and Sunday mornings to give me a great foundation all those many years ago. 

Because of Sunday School teachers and children's ministry volunteers:

* I learned all the books of the Bible in order, using a song I still sing.

* I learned the importance of bringing tithes and offerings to church.

* I learned the importance of inviting friends to church.

* I learned how to look up verses in the Bible.

* I learned memory verses I still recite. 

* I learned all the little songs that solidified truths I learned from the Word.

..and so much more!

My parents gave me a great foundation at home, and I've written about that here before. I don't want to take away from the hard work and intention they put in, but I want to demonstrate that because of all these men and women who volunteered in Sunday School, my foundation was even stronger.

I know it's harder than ever now to find people who want to commit to being at church each week to work in children's ministry. So many people now travel on weekends or don't have time (don't want to take time?) to prep during the week for class on Sunday.

But it so matters!

I am grateful for the host of Sunday School superintendents, teachers, VBS workers, and youth leaders who spent time investing in me. My life now is richer because of their investment then. I am so very thankful.

I don't know if you're involved with kids at church or not. (And truly, I know it's not for everyone! It's not something that's possible for me in this season of life.) But if you possibly can, I encourage you to pray about it. You might never know what an incredible influence you could have in a child's future!