by Foy Short
You aren't able to enter into the worship. Just when you focus on the song and begin to feel some spiritual responsiveness, 18-month-old Missy bangs her head on the back of the pew, and her cries rise in crescendo above the singing. Or you have just begun to grasp his line of reasoning as the preacher expounds on a difficult verse, when 3-year-old Johnny tugs at your sleeve and insists in loud whispers that he had to go to the restroom. The ways in which children can distract your attention and break your concentration are endless.
Sometimes you feel there is no purpose in being at the church services while trying to cope with children. You feel you are getting nothing out of services and the kids are probably distracting others, so why take them? Why not stay home so that you, the children, and others will all be happier? Your feelings are perfectly understandable. You do have a problem. But don't be discouraged. In reality you have a great opportunity. If you act wisely, you have the power to accomplish wonderful objectives.
1. You can implant in your children the habit of attending services, thereby opening the way for them to learn about God as they grow. This may very well mean all the difference between their becoming faithful Christians or going the destructive way of the world.
2. Though you may not be learning much from the sermons, you are learning thoroughly practical lessons in patience, self-control, self-denial, perseverance, discipline, and obedience to God. These lessons are the kind best learned under the pressures of hindrances and obstacles.
3. You are teaching others. By faithful attendance and courage, you are setting a wonderful example to the whole congregation. Such an example is a priceless asset to any church. It is more powerful in influencing the lives of others than many sermons. A church cannot have too many young mothers and fathers of this kind. We need you all! We want you all!
So, young parents, don't be discouraged. Keep coming. Bring the children. Most of us have been through the same experiences and we understand your difficulties. We respect your concern for others. We admire your fortitude in coming. We want your fellowship in worship. We need your help in teaching the church. So keep bringing the little ones to services.