March 31 Devotion by Gwen Peebles

“When you pause and look around, what is it that you feel brings you closer to God?”

• music
• nature
• children

 
CCC children

• Group chat
• Chat right after worship
• Zoom for Mer’s bday

 
Mark 10:14-16
14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
 
Saturday afternoon, I got a friend request on Messenger from one of the children from Centennial Christian Church. Within a few minutes, I was virtual friends with four children from our congregation. One of them created a group chat. As you can imagine, it was a lot of silliness with goofy pictures, laughter, and joyful conversation. Then Sunday morning, 2 minutes after the virtual worship service, another group chat began.  These kids were so excited to be together virtually. They shared that for communion they had Goldfish, Oreos, juice, and banana bread. According to them, the sermon “rocked”. Later Sunday evening, a plan evolved between the children and their parents to surprise Meredith (member and past nursery worker) with a Zoom call for her 21st birthday on Monday morning. As Meredith’s mother, I got to be part of that call.  Sweet voices sang “Happy Birthday”. Giggles and well wishes and “I love you” filled the conversation. Meredith was filled with joy and love from the youngest members of the church.
 
As I pause and think about what brings me closer to God during this difficult time, it is the children. This group of young people have shown God’s love for each other by starting this little group chat. They are too young to realize the impact they are having on each other, their parents, and their church family. The Christian witness they share is huge. Community, fellowship, encouragement, joy, unconditional love, acceptance, support are just some of the ways these children are sharing God’s love.
 
The scripture from Mark has been one I try to practice in my daily life. As a result, I have a lot of very young friends. The simplistic views they so eagerly share are so pure and clear. During this uncertain time, I pray that you may cling to the child like ways of our youngest members.
 
Peace,
Gwen Peebles