Can you see from your seat?

As a person of average height, I generally have no problem seeing our Pastor when he preaches. Of course, sometimes a taller person sits in front of me requiring a little more effort to see what is going on up front. 

How about your children? Can they see from your spot when they are seated with you or on the floor standing? When our children were small, we went to a conference on worship and the worship leader had us sit in the back as if we were small kids. We could not see anything going on; it was as if nothing was happening as we could see nothing.

We were recently at a baseball game and the stadium officials made a great effort to ensure everyone could see the action, including stopping people from walking up the steps when a batter was at the plate. I am sure you want to see the action regardless of your age; whether you are at a baseball game or sitting in church, all of the action is up front.

At Good Shepherd we love kids and we want them involved in what is going on up front. Here are a few tips to ensure you and your children are getting the most out of our Sunday morning worship service:

• Sit with your children in the front of the church so you and your children can see the colors on the altar as well as Pastor as he moves.
• Explain to your children why Pastor stands in different locations and point these times out to your children. (Please ask if you do not know for certain.)
• Active looking and listening will assist in enhancing the worship life of your child.
• If they cannot read, have them listen for key words or phrases such as Jesus or love. Look ahead in the readings and pick some words out for them to keep them engaged.
• If they can read, have them follow along and have them point out key items to you. We played a game on Sundays called “what sin was discussed in the sermon and readings.” This is easy enough to play and can provide a good discussion for after the service.
• Participate in the service joyfully. As you know, our children model our behavior. Even though they will not yet understand the service, they are always looking around for clues on how to act from us.
• Explain the service to your children. It is easy from the front rows as they can see what is happening.
• Encourage them to participate by saying “amen” or teaching them the Lord’s Prayer.
• Involve your child in the worship service by singing, folding hands, standing and sitting with you.
• We expect everyone to get up from the worship service at some point. It happens to adults and children.

The point is: What we do on Sunday to engage our children will shape them powerfully and forever. Also, if you cannot see what is going on, please move forward so that everyone you came with can see.

But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Luke 18:16

-Glen Leavens, Head Elder