Sabbath Musings…

My view of Children's Sabbath came from a different perspective than yours, but I'm sure you loved it almost as much as me.

Yes, it was a long worship service.

Yes, we had a few technical difficulties.

Yes, there was a lot going on that day.

Yes, there were noises throughout the service.

Yes, there was constant movement in all the pews.

Yes, a few parents and caregivers had a few anxious moments.

But, Yes, there was joy everywhere!

We celebrated a fantastic day with our sanctuary filled with babies, children, youth and families. We WERE the village it takes to raise a child! Parents serving as deacons had helpers trading off to take care of their little busy-body-boy. Youth stepped in to help corral little ones and lead a processional through the sanctuary. A new child was presented to God in our sanctuary before the witnesses of family and friends. And, we welcomed children of all ages by our willingness to celebrate for this one day.

From my point of view, this is what I saw…

I saw the enraptured delight on the face of a toddler when she encountered the beauty of our Candle Table. It was as if she looked at the table and saw the love and prayers that were offered up in that spot in our sanctuary.

I saw the eyes of so many glued to the story of Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus to God in the Temple. It was as if they, too, were a part of that moment in time so long ago. They 'entered' into the story.

I saw the love and joy on each adult face who watched the screen waiting for their child/grandchild/great-grandchild/neice/nephew to appear in the slide-show…and I heard chuckles when pictures of kids being kids appeared on the screen. I suppose we've all seen those same behaviors in our own children.

I saw awe-struck family members coming forward to receive communion from one of their own children and knew that it was as special to them to receive this meal from their 'babies' as it was for me to know these youth were willing to serve the church that often serves them.

It truly was an incredible worship experience…and thankfully, it's only once a year.

Blessings,
Tracy