Summer Break is Almost Here!
In just a few short hours, our sweet kindergartners will be graduating and moving on to other schools. The celebration and singing will be memorable as our tradition of Musical Morning in May continues. We will want to stop the clock and freeze this special moment in time, but time marches on and children grow up. The 2’s matriculate to the 3’s, the 3’s to the 4’s, and 4’s to kindergarten. For those of you leaving, please know that you’ll be missed – you and your children!
I’ve often thought about how much Jesus loved little children. Equally important was how much they loved Him. You see, children can’t be fooled. They know when someone genuinely loves them. They are better at knowing this than we adults. I believe Jesus loved children for much the same reason that those of us at Redeemer love your children: they are genuine, unassuming, innocent, candid, playful, carefree, trusting, loving, fun, funny, and direct in their speech without pretense. They never try to be somebody they’re not. Children can display a level of faith as they bring us to tears through their heartfelt prayers. We’ve experienced this; I know you have also.
Allow me to leave you with one piece of advice as you head out soon for summer break. When I taught Roman numerals to my first graders, I had the most difficult time remembering that the Roman numeral L stood for 50. So, I told myself that L meant laughter and to have a good day, one must laugh 50 times. It worked! L = 50. And do you know who laughs A LOT? Our RDS students and our faculty and staff!
So, as you transition into your summer routine, make sure to include enjoyment and laughter as you spend unhurried time with your children. I realize that there is much in our world today that causes us to be tempted to lose our laughter and joy, and personal trials can take our eyes off Jesus. During those times, we must pray – earnestly and fervently for ourselves and others. However, this is exactly when children are such a blessing. If we allow them, they will take us into moments when time seemingly stands still, and the cares of this world are held at bay. Hold your children close and allow them to remind you that the simple things in life like a hug, a smile, a sincere prayer aptly spoken, or an “I love you, Mommy” or “I love you, Daddy” are the most precious moments in your day. These moments and your children are gifts from your heavenly Father.
As our kindergartners graduate and children move to the next class, we are reminded that time is moving swiftly. Summer is a good time to ask, how am I investing in my child? Here is a book recommendation and short review: “Through personal stories and biblical examples, 936 Pennies will help you discover how to capture time and use it to its fullest potential, replacing guilt and regrets with freedom.” I love this book. It is an easy read, and one you will enjoy. Be selective and read the little stories that resonate with you. Meanwhile, your kids will see how simple choices, like putting the cell phone down and going on a family hike, will make all the difference. Together you will stretch time and make wonderful memories.
“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace,” (Numbers 6:24-26) A-men!
