Throughout October in our Epistle readings we’re going to be reading from the book of Hebrews, and the first reading from Hebrews for October (on the 5th and 6th) sets up an important theme for the whole book. That reading begins: “Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.” The author of the book of Hebrews reminds us that we need to be constantly turning to God and all His gifts.

This, then, is a very appropriate theme, because Rally Day and the start of Sunday school are not too far behind us, and these words of Hebrews—that we need to always be turning to God—are very appropriate to talking about children and the raising of children. One of the greatest joys and one of the greatest responsibilities that parents (and grandparents, and aunts and uncles, and anyone else who can be involved in a child’s life) have is to teach that child to do just that—to always be turning to God. How do you do that? How do you nurture a child’s faith? Well, here are a few very practical ways:

Model the Faith: We learn from our parents! If you want your child to live a life of faith, one of the best ways to help is to model that by going to church, going to Bible class, engaging with God’s word at home, praying regularly, and everything else that is part of being a Christian. (Even if you yourself don’t have children, this is something that you can still do—I remember all the positive models I had at church growing up and the impression they made on me).

Talk about the Faith: On the way home from church, talk about the sermon, or what happened in Bible study. On the way to confirmation, talk about what they’re learning during class. During the week, talk about these things. Helping children to be comfortable talking about their faith is very important.

Practice the Faith: Doing devotions or praying as a family is a wonderful practice. There are many resources even in our hymnal for doing this—feel free to talk to myself or Pastor Treglown if you need ideas getting started!

Pray for Their Faith: This is another one that anyone can do, whether they have children or not. Pray for all the children of our congregation, and all those connected to it. Pray for their parents. Pray for their grandparents. Pray for their teachers. Pray constantly, because we know that our God hears our prayers.

May God richly bless all of us this coming month that we might “pay close attention to what we have heard,” and especially that we, both as individuals and as a church, may pass on that faith and careful attention to the next generation.

-Pastor Duncan