How much more now do I appreciate the hard work put forward in preparing and teaching children the values of kingdom principles! As I run through the checklist I think about all the things required to make it all work: the Bible lesson and illustration materials; the music, memory verses, activities, games and recreation equipment; the staff, the pickups and transportation arrangements; the permission slips and emergency contact information; the snacks/food and transition times to ensure we keep things moving forward. I think about the progress of some children and the concerns I have for others; the excuses some parents have given for why their children aren't attending, and the mystery of why some have just stopped coming altogether. I think about the hardships some of the children experience in life outside our little program and wonder what their war stories are with the world we live in today.
But in light of all the challenges we experience in this important ministry, I must believe that the seed of the gospel must continue to be scattered upon the soil of their hearts in hopes that the Lord will help them grow in the light of His mercy and grace. We mustn't let discouragement stand in the way of opportunity. You never know what might become of just one precious soul you took the time to serve in a Christian after school program.
