936. That’s about how many weeks parents have with their children from birth to high school graduation. For those with children still at home, that sounds like a lot of time, until we realize how many weeks have passed, and how few weeks we have remaining. Each week matters! So how do we maximize our limited time?
In Deuteronomy 6:5, the Bible says, “Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Moses is telling a group of parents, aunts, uncles, singles, and grandparents, that the most important thing to pass on to every child is a relationship with God. He wanted them and us to show our children how to love God with all their hearts.
Moses advised parents to make faith a part of their everyday lives. One of the easiest ways to do that is to incorporate your faith into what you’re already doing each week. During bath time, when you’re driving in the car, or when you’re coloring together, be intentional about discussing your faith with your child.
Mom and Dad, you have the most influence over who your child will become. But don’t get overwhelmed—when Moses explained the strategy, he challenged the entire community of faith to influence the next generation. You as a parent don’t have to do this alone. The church can and should play a role in your children’s spiritual formation.
We want to partner with you —to link arms with you in raising your child to have a faith of their own. Together we have 936 weeks to give your child the foundation they will build on for the rest of their lives. Together, we can guide the next generation into a growing relationship with Jesus.
-Mike Johnson
Don’t forget to ‘Take 5’