One of the great joys in life is taking time away from our busy lives and planning a vacation. Some of us plan for beach trips during the summer or maybe even a cruise. There is excitement that we gain from looking ahead to time away to unplug from our jobs or daily routines. The anticipation builds as we get closer for the opportunity to get away that we aren’t worried about things that might go awry.
I had the privilege to help at Vacation Bible School this year, but also observe wonderful people give up their time and put forth their energy to make the week special for children. It began with the wonderful planning of Karen King, Sarah Martin, and Liz Payne to find volunteers, but also to plan every aspect of the week. The excitement they had as first time VBS Directors, filtered down to all the volunteers and then to the children. They started the “Party”, but the volunteers continued it for each child to experience.
Sunday School and Children’s Worship is filled with energetic children each week. The teachers are doing an amazing job at keeping the energy harnessed before the children are given the opportunity to share something exciting that happened during the week. Their vitality and enthusiasm are infectious to be around on a Sunday morning.
We all have an eagerness to provide opportunities for children and teenagers to interact with each other and learn about Jesus. The church has responded to create and renew a spirit (Psalm 51:10) that attracts and welcomes children of all ages; yes, even adults. Pastor Mark and I have started leading a class of Young Believers who are interested in what it means to be a follower of Christ. Their liveliness, but sincerity to ask questions or join in discussion as we read through the book of Luke, has left me energized to continue the sense of community.
I am eager to continue the “Party” and provide more opportunities for children to explore the love of Christ. Beginning this fall, we will offer a children’s choir on Wednesday nights following the Fellowship Meal. With the help of wonderful teachers, we will also begin to meet with teenagers who are in 6th grade to 12th grade, to build a youth program. The harvest at Haymarket is plentiful, but the able workers are rich. When we have joy in our hearts, God offers us an endless supply of love and compassion to continue to build his kingdom while everything falls into place if we seek him first.
In Christ,
John Majette