Children - Pt 1

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. (Psalm 127:1-5 ESV).

When Faith and Logan were born, nearly fourteen years ago, I started writing letters to them. I stopped until recently when I decided to start writing again. This round of letter will go to them along with my other grandchildren. Now that Maggie is two and the twins, Lucy and Harris, have been born, it is time to begin to write again. Part of that desire is that there are some things I really believe are essential for them to hear from a grandpa; the other reason is much more selfish, since I did not have any opportunity to talk with my own grandfather since he was deceased long before I was born. I would have liked very much to have been able to have known him. It is always good for children to personally know as much as possible about their family. It helps to cement the relationship of love and care within that essential unit of life. Unfortunately, America is becoming a country that loves children less and less. Too many people see them as a burden that slows them down in their pursuit of the American dream. Even in the church, Christian couples get strange looks when they say they want to have a lot of kids. Some will even discourage them with the retort, “That will change after you’ve had a kid or two.” This response shouldn’t be. The Bible is overwhelmingly positive in its language about children. Our reading today declares that “Children are a heritage from the Lord” (v. 3). When teaching his disciples, Jesus uses an illustration of the joy of a mother delivering her baby (cf. John 16:21). Our words and actions should reflect the heart and values of Scripture. After all, the Bible is the heart and values of God. I am not naïve. I know that some children are difficult. They present challenges to us in many different ways. However, all Christians should be known as people who love children because we have been graciously loved by a Father. Our love for and joy in children should be evident and contagious, winsomely put on display for the whole world to witness and, Lord willing, want for themselves. There are a few things we will look at in the coming days to practically help us as parents and grandparents. Today, commit yourself to love your children.