Why is it that we must take time to train our kids to worship? Simply put, "all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God" as Paul writes in Romans 3. "All" includes our children, and it doesn't take long to realize the truth that children are sinners just like adults. They have selfish desires, they are rebellious and disobedient. Therefore, our children must be taught to confess their sins to God for God promises forgiveness. Peter, preaching on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2, answers the peoples' question "What shall we do?" with this: "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children"
This gift is for you and your children! Take a moment during our time of confession to remind them of their sinful ways the past week, invite them to confess just as you and I confess before the holy and almighty God. Then, teach them to make the sign of the cross as they hear the words of absolution spoken by the pastor. Remind them of their baptism which clothes them with Christ and assure them they are forgiven before the throne in heaven. This gift is for them just as it is for you.
I hope our taking time to go through the Confession/Absolution part of our service has helped you emphasize this to your children. Our worship service is built around God's gifts and is designed to deliver those gifts to us in a decent and orderly manner so that when we go home, we go home knowing we have received Christ and have the full assurance of heaven. This all begins with our confessing our sins and receiving God's gracious forgiveness.
This gift is for you and your children! Take a moment during our time of confession to remind them of their sinful ways the past week, invite them to confess just as you and I confess before the holy and almighty God. Then, teach them to make the sign of the cross as they hear the words of absolution spoken by the pastor. Remind them of their baptism which clothes them with Christ and assure them they are forgiven before the throne in heaven. This gift is for them just as it is for you.
I hope our taking time to go through the Confession/Absolution part of our service has helped you emphasize this to your children. Our worship service is built around God's gifts and is designed to deliver those gifts to us in a decent and orderly manner so that when we go home, we go home knowing we have received Christ and have the full assurance of heaven. This all begins with our confessing our sins and receiving God's gracious forgiveness.
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