"Back to School" time...it is something that children look forward to even it they don't want to admit that they like going to school. It is something that parents look forward to as they try to get something of a routine back into their lives. It is something that childcare teachers look forward to also because it means that the daily activities will slow down just a little and the younger children will be able to focus on learning too!
For parents, going back to school includes a busy time of getting ready,..shopping for school clothes...buying school supplies...making arrangements for daycare...meeting the teacher...re-establishing a schedule, etc. For teachers it means decorating the classroom, writing lesson plans, purchasing needed supplies, meeting new students and wondering what the new year will bring. For children it means seeing old friends, meeting new friends, getting to know a new teacher or going to a new school.
I've seen a lot of signs lately that say "Back to School" and right along with them "Back to Church". Your child has gone back to school and now it is time to think about the second statement...BACK TO CHURCH. Has your attendance and participation in worship slacked off during the summer? Or maybe, you just never got involved last year. It is never too late to include "Back to Church" in your fall plans.
You make sure that your child has all that they need to be successful in school...all the right supplies, the best teachers and schools. But have you considered whether you have given them everything to be successful in life or given them the opportunity to receive the gift of eternal life?
If your child is in a Christian school or childcare you have taken one step forward in that area, but it important for parents to model the Christian life for their children. That doesn't just mean being a good person and doing the right thing, it also means that your child needs to see you devoting your Sunday morning to worshiping your Lord and Savior. Your child needs to see you in fellowship with other Christians, involved in Bible Study and Worship.
It is sometimes a difficult commitment to make...it is easier to stay in bed on Sunday, As the new school year begins in the fall and lots of things change, it is a good time to make a change in your spiritual habits and routines as well. Take this opportunity to make the fall MORE than "Back to School" by going back to your church and getting involved or finding a church home that you want to become a part of.
Just like school for your children is a priority, make church a priority too and grow your relationship with Jesus! I'll be praying for you!
