passing the baton

Today at church I was teaching in our children's church. I was in charge of our 1st thru 6th graders. My typical group consists of about 10 girls between the ages of 8-10. I host a children's Bible Study in our home on Thursday nights that includes most of these girls (plus a few more). These girls are such a joy to me! Their eagerness to share their struggles (even if they are mostly grades or friends)and their willingness to be little missionaries is such an encouragement to me. Many times as I close us in prayer I thank God for them and what a blessing they are in my life. I ALMOST ALWAYS tear up as I pray for them. Today was no exception. When I finished praying one of the girls came up to me and asked me why I think they are a blessing. As I began listing the things they bless me with they became more and more intersted and proud of themselves. Let me tell you that I was not blowing smoke. These girls are awesome and their love for the Lord makes my heart sing!

I recently read a chapter of a book that talks about 'passing the baton'. That's what we do when we spend time with our children in the Word. When we are good examples of what the Lord asks us to be. When we invest time and love in our children. Let me tell you that I could not be prouder of the girls that are my runners! As I reach for their outstretched hands and they take off running I will continue to pray that I have helped to 'train' & equip them for the race they are running. They are eager to please the Lord, to share His message and to volunteer their time to help others. They try to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord. I see it in them over and over again. They are amazing!

So you see, they really do bless me!