When we think of sharing the Good News with others, we often think of taking it to the ends of the earth but fail to realize that our ministry begins at home. As parents, we want the best for our children in all areas of life, but as Christian parents, we have the awesome privilege of being able to share the powerful, life-changing, message of the Gospel with them.

Children love stories of adventure, suspense and excitement, and the Bible is full of these stories! Two of my children enjoy learning about severe weather, and often watch videos of tornadoes and hurricanes. However, when we actually have bad weather, they do get a little nervous. While we do not experience severe weather too often in southern California, we do experience thunder and electric storms which are fun to watch.  Because of their fascination with the weather, one of my favorite stories of the Bible to share is when Jesus calmed the storm (Mark 4:35-41). The disciples were afraid of such a strong storm, but Jesus calmed their fears and the storm! In the same way, I can teach my children, in age-appropriate ways, how Jesus is always with them, will calm their fears, and overcome the “storms” that come into our life.

This is what sharing the Gospel with our children looks like. We do not have to sit and drill them for an hour. It is presenting God’s story to them in meaningful ways that they will understand. It is taking every opportunity to sit and have big conversations based on their questions. It is showing them how personal God really is and how He is excited to be part of our lives. Our children should know that we are not ashamed of the Gospel, but rather that we are eager to share its life-changing message with as many people as possible!

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for being so relatable. You have given us your Word, which literally gives us examples of every life situation we can think of. Help me faithfully share your story with my children, so that as they grow, their relationship with you will deepen. Help me use every opportunity you provide to share your message with others as well. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

1.    Romans 1:16 (NLT).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.