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FURNISH A PLACE FOR CHILDREN'S PRAISE


SCRIPTURE: "When the religious leaders saw the outrageous things he was doing, and heard all the children running and shouting through the Temple, "Hosanna to David's Son!" they were up in arms and took him to task. "Do you hear what these children are saying?" Jesus said, "Yes, I hear them. And haven't you read in God's Word, 'From the mouths of children and babies I'll furnish a place of praise'?" - MATTHEW 21: 15-16

At three years old I cuddle under covers as my parents read to me from the big Bible Story Book.  At Vacation Bible School volunteers act out those same stories on a flannel board.

I spend a lot of time at my Nana's house. As I sweep her porches and listen along with her to the Moody Bible Hour on the radio, my short broom strokes follow the lines of the wooden planks - straight and narrow as the radio preacher's solemn sermons. On Sundays I sit by her in church where we hold the hymnal together as we sing.

By age 11, I'm taking piano lessons though I don't have a piano. The pastor of our little church entrusts me with a key so I can practice on an old church piano as often as I wish. 

Two years later in Sunday School my teacher looks at me and says "God has your whole life mapped out already!" It's a huge relief to know Someone has a plan! A year later I answer a call to accept Christ and soon after that I'm baptized.

By the age of 12 I'd been loved by family who shared Bible stories and hymns. I'd been exposed to preaching across pulpits and airwaves. I knew I had value because my church shared its resources with me when I had nothing to give in return.  

This is how I see Jesus: Jesus is people who invest in the lives of children.

PRAYER: Help us remember to invest in ALL the children so they know You have a plan for them, too, God. AMEN.

Julie Crosby

Please direct responses and praise to Julie by clicking here.

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