The Power of Serving Children: A Legacy of Love and Joy

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By Tricia Goyer

Sometimes, we don’t see the full impact of serving others—especially children—until years down the road. I was reminded of this just the other day while reflecting on this verse:  

“Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” - Mark 10:14-16

I smiled as I thought of John, my husband, and the joy and passion he has for children. The first time he caught my attention wasn’t during some grand display, but in a simple act of service. He was at his parents’ church, leading the kids to the living room area to share Bible stories. While John’s dad, our pastor, preached, John’s joy radiated from the other room. I had no idea that, years later, we’d be married with nine children of our own, and that John would continue to live out those words of Jesus, inviting children into his life and heart with such love.

Sometimes the most meaningful acts of service happen in the quiet moments—when we welcome the little children, we welcome the Kingdom of God.

Fast forward to today, and John’s devotion still inspires me. He’s not just a dad who serves; he’s a man who embodies that childlike faith Christ speaks of, faithfully loving our children and leading them to Jesus through daily acts of care. Just yesterday, he fixed one of our adult son’s computers, took another child to basketball practice, and helped move things into storage for our daughter. His heart for serving never fades. Even our older children are living this out, with two of our daughters now serving in a preschool in Poland. Just before we took them to the airport, John gathered us all for communion, praying over them and affirming their decision to give a year of their lives to “the least of these.”

These little moments remind me that serving children isn’t a small task. It’s kingdom work. It’s showing the heart of Jesus every day, and it’s something God cherishes deeply.

How to Appreciate and Encourage Those Who Serve Children

If you’ve ever served in children’s ministry, or have been around those who have, you know it can sometimes feel like a thankless job. But what we do for children matters. Whether it’s our own kids or those in our community, we are helping shape hearts for eternity. Here are a few practical ways you can show appreciation and encouragement to those who serve children:

1. Write a Personal Note: Take a few minutes to write a heartfelt note of gratitude. Share specific moments where their service made a difference. There’s power in knowing that what we do matters, even if it’s behind the scenes.

2. Provide a Little Extra Care: Often, those who serve are always looking out for others and rarely take time for themselves. Consider offering to babysit for free, make them a meal, or give them a gift card for a local coffee shop.

3. Pray for Them (and Let Them Know): There’s no greater way to show appreciation than through prayer. Ask God to give them strength, wisdom, and renewed joy in their calling. Then, let them know you’re praying for them regularly.

4. Celebrate Their Efforts Publicly: Whether it’s on social media or within your church community, publicly affirm those who serve children. This can go a long way in helping them feel valued and seen.

5. Give Small Tokens of Encouragement: Little things like a bookmark with a Scripture verse or a candle can remind them that their work is significant. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—just thoughtful.

Serving children isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most important things we can do. We may feel weary at times, but when we remember that Jesus treasures these little ones and the care we give them, we find strength to continue. So, whether you’re a parent or someone serving in children’s ministry, know that God sees your efforts, and He values them more than you know.

And just as John has faithfully served our family and the children in our lives for over twenty years, may we all be encouraged to keep welcoming, teaching, and loving the little ones in our care—because in doing so, we reflect the heart of Jesus.

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

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