Reflections on Serving in Children’s Sunday School
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Luke 18:16). Children’s Sunday School is not merely childcare during the Sunday service. Teachers use God’s Word to bring children before Him. Scripture teaches us to train up a child in the way he should go, so that even when he is old he will not turn from it (Proverbs 22:6).
Worship in Spirit and Truth
Serving children takes time and energy, but even more it requires patience and love from the Lord. When I lead worship, children sometimes find it difficult to settle. Some walk around, while others laugh and play. God’s Word reminds me that true worshippers worship the Father in spirit and truth, because God is spirit (John 4:23–24). If children cannot quiet themselves and turn their attention to God, worship can become a routine rather than worship in spirit and truth.
So instead of rushing through the programme, I sometimes stop and wait quietly—one minute, two minutes, or longer. The children gradually notice that the teacher has stopped speaking. Over time they learn to become still before worship and turn their attention to God. In the process, God also changes me, moving my focus from completing a programme to leading children into genuine worship.
Not Giving Up on Any Little Lamb
Jesus came to seek and save the lost. He spoke of a shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to find the one sheep that has wandered away, because the Father does not want even one of these little ones to be lost (Matthew 18:12–14). Every child is a little lamb loved by the Lord, and none should be overlooked.
One child was especially restless and often disturbed others during worship. I tried keeping him beside me, but it did not help much. After worship I decided to speak with him privately. As soon as we began, he burst into tears. I did not know what to say, so I silently asked God to give me gentle and wise words. Rather than immediately correcting him, I asked about the activities he enjoyed. He told me about video games. Although I knew little about them, I listened patiently. He relaxed and became calm.
Then I asked, “Do you believe in Jesus?” He nodded seriously. “Do you believe Jesus loves you?” Again he nodded. “Do you believe your teacher loves you too?” He smiled shyly and nodded. I held his hand and prayed, declaring that God loved him, delighted in him and received his worship. Even when he was mischievous, God would not abandon him, but would use his teachers to guide him. At the end he quietly said, “Amen,” and happily returned to class. After that, when he became distracted during worship, I only needed to smile at him. He understood, settled down and focused.
This was the Holy Spirit doing a wonderful work in a child’s heart and renewing his life little by little. God also showed me His ever-present help and reminded me that I am only a vessel in His hands and a channel for His Word.
Sowing in Fertile Soil
A child’s heart is among the softest soil for the gospel. The fruit of ministry may not appear immediately, but God’s Word never returns empty. Children are sincere, eager and full of life. When they are led from an early age to know salvation and trust the truth, they are like a mustard seed that grows into a great tree and bears lasting fruit. The small lives we shepherd today may become future deacons, elders, pastors and pillars in God’s church. We therefore dare not become careless or neglect the mission entrusted to us.
Having the Mind of Christ
Ministry inevitably brings challenges and tensions. As EFCCA grows, every ministry needs more co-workers. Sometimes people whom Children’s Sunday School hopes to recruit are also invited by other ministries. Family activities may conflict with church programmes or room bookings. My natural reaction is to argue that children’s needs should come first.
Yet as I seek God in prayer, His Word shines light on me: we should not look only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others, and we should have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:4–5). He reminds me to pursue peace and not cause others to stumble. When I release my own insistence, submit to God, and communicate with humility and gentleness, these matters can be resolved. God even opens another door and lets us experience His abundant provision and unexpected peace. Praise the Lord.
Being Built Up through Service
Looking back, I realise that I am not the one leading the children—the Lord is leading me. I am not the one changing them—the Holy Spirit is working in their hearts. Through serving, God is shaping me. I am learning to bring difficulties to Him, seek and wait for Him in prayer, release my own methods and depend on His guidance. I have also learned that ministry is not simply expenditure; it is a place where life is built up.
May all glory belong to the Lord. Amen.
