Child Dedication: Spring 2022

“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.” Ps. 127

Children are a gift from the Lord. We are so blessed with children and families in this church. We have the vibrant life that comes from having babies in the service, a children’s church building that’s already almost too small, and so many wonderful families who gather here to worship together. 

This morning, we celebrate the gift of God in giving us families. The Puritans used to say that every family is a little church. It’s where we learn to love God, serve him, model grace and forgiveness, work out our salvation together. Family is not easy, but it is one of God’s greatest blessings. 

This morning, we also celebrate the gift of children. Although we have many Christian traditions represented here, we all agree that as parents, one of our most important roles is raising children to know and love God and to follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. 

What we’re doing today is modeled after what Jesus’ parents did in Luke 2:22-23, “And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.” You might wonder why Jesus was dedicated, but we all understand why Mary and Joseph dedicated themselves to raising a godly son. Child dedication is also a parent dedication; a promise before God and the church, a commitment, and an open invitation for help and encouragement. Everyone here has a role to play this morning, and by God’s grace what we commit ourselves to today will affect eternity for these children. 

To the Parents:
Do you all dedicate your families to the Lord, to love him, serve him, and walk in his ways?
Will you love your children as you have been loved by God, giving grace, forgiving, and helping them to follow God's plan for their life? 

To the Congregation:
Will you walk alongside these families, praying for them, encouraging them, and pointing them to God? 

Prayer