After the kids were fed the sixteen large pizzas and consumed four cases of pop as well as 200 cups of orange drink. There were about 100 kids. They were sent to have a rest in children's church.
Jesus Himself knowing all things stayed behind to pray. Now it was late, the service had gone long. Children's church was in full swing. The workers were in the middle of the children and He was alone in the hallway. He looked in the back door and saw them toiling. They stopped three races, settled two brawls, collected twelve candies and tried to sing, but the children were contrary to them.
After the workers' fourth time of trying to quiet them and settle them down, He came in, walking through the back doors. It looked like He was ready to leave, but when the children's workers saw Him standing at the back door ready to depart, they cried out, "Don't go! Please don't leave!"
When He stayed, their troubled hearts became peaceful.
Then Jesus talked to them, "Be of good cheer; it is I, be not afraid."
The children settled down. The commotion became calm. The shuffling ceased. The workers were amazed beyond measure, and marvelled.
He had brought peace.
-----------------------------------------------------
Paraphrase of Mark 6:45-50 by Joel Heimbecker, 1995
Sunday, February 21, 1999
Sunday, January 31, 1999
Jewels for Keeping
The Jewels
He had searched a long time for the treasure. Soon now he would have the most valuable jewels in the world. He had paid the price and was now waiting for the delivery.
CP, for that is what every one called him, stretched out in his office and dreamed of holding the ruby, emerald, and sapphire. He could imagine everyone wanting to view the treasures that would soon belong to him. He wanted to protect them but then it would be a shame to hide their beauty.
CP decided to build a museum that would house these very expensive, one of a kind gems. They would be polished by the best in the field. "After all," CP thought, "you spend your life savings on getting these gems, then you want the finest and most experienced stone cutter to style them so the facets are shown to perfection - no matter the cost." The lighting would be designed so that it would dance off the stones. Their glory causing the walls and ceiling to sparkle. Everything just had to be right. Each small detail must be considered. The right back drop, the correct construction, climate controlled, soft music playing, enhancing the atmosphere so when people saw the ruby, sapphire and emerald their attention would be drawn to the creator of such exquisite jewels.
Construction began immediately. CP wanted to be ready when the gems arrived. People commented on the construction of the rooms and the layout of the future exhibits. The design and interior decorating were excellent. Once every thing was ready the gems arrived.
CP personally unpacked each jewel. First came the ruby. As he lifted it from the packing the sun flashed off the stone. The brilliance was much richer than he expected. In awe and crying with joy, CP held the ruby in his hands. Turning his eyes heavenward, he said aloud, "If You can make a stone so beautiful, how much more is Your beauty." CP knew that this ruby would be the first in the exhibit. To protect it from the oily, sticky hands of those who would want to touch it, CP put it in a glass case under lock and key.
The second jewel to be lifted from its crate was the emerald. CP had seen other emeralds but there was no comparison to the magnificence that he now held in his hands. He had thought maybe of putting all the stones in one dispay case. Now he knew that each gem needed to be put in a showcase of its own. As with the ruby, CP put the emerald into a glass case, placing it upon the velvet.
Now CP turned his attention to the last crate to be unpacked. It housed his sapphire. When he removed the lid the sapphire sparkled among the packing. Although the gem was delicate, its beauty and splendour was breathtaking. As with the others, the wonder of God who could create such matchless beauty hidden under the dirt caused tears to run down CP"S cheeks. After all, was he not himself a treasure that God had pulled from the ash heap? Once the sapphire was placed in its glass case, CP wanted to show the whole world.
Thinking about his treasure CP realized that he could not be at the museum all of the time. He had to sleep and eat. Who would protect the treasure? If it were not protected thieves could break in and steal his rare gems. He had to find somebody who would watch over the museum and the treasure. Someone he could trust. He would advertise for a security guard.
Idont Care
The first applicant arrived. CP took notice of his appearance. His hair was uncombed. His teeth were not brushed. It also appeared that he had not changed his clothes for many days. CP really wondered if this person even cared about himself, but remembering the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover!" CP continued with the interview.
CP asked, "Are you willing to guard my treasure with the best of your ability and even go as far as to give your life in protecting them?"
Idont Care wanted to know how much he would get paid.
CP responded "We haven't even talked about money, and you want to know your pay. Do you really care for my treasure?"
Idont stretched and said that if robbers would come he would let them steal the jewels after all he was more important than some pieces of stone. No, he was just looking for a job and if he could sleep on the job, now and then, that would be OK with him.
CP said, "You are not the person I have in mind for this position."
Idont Care shrugged his shoulders, "Well if you can't find any body else, keep me in mind. I can always use a few extra bucks." As Idont slunk out the door, he said, "See ya around!"
I. M. Proud
CP had to find someone to guard his valued treasures when he was not around. Maybe the next applicant would meet the standard. The applicant strode into the office with an air of confidence. He stuck out his hand and shook CP's hand vigorously. "Pleased to meet you, Proud's my name, I. M. Proud. I hear you are looking for someone to guard your little gems. Well I want you to know that you have got the right man."
I. M. Proud was wearing a finely tailored suit which in spite of its fit could not hide the bulging muscles. His sun bleached hair and tanned skin were rivalled only by the gold jewelry that flashed as he spoke. CP tried to talk but Proud just kept right on going.
CP finally went to his desk and sat down and pulled out a pad of paper. CP started to write a message on the paper. When I. M. Proud realized that CP was really not paying attention to him he started to pout and went and sat down in a chair.
CP looked up and with a kindly smile asked, "What would you do if robbers tried to steal my jewels? Are you willing to die in protecting them?"
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet. "Of course I would protect them. They wouldn't get hurt while I was on duty. Like I said I haven't seen a person yet who could beat me. As you can see on my resume, I have lots of ability."
CP made a quick phone call while I. M. Proud continued boasting about his accomplishments. Suddenly a child burst into the room eating cotton candy. The melted candy had stuck to his hands and to his face. The mixture of brown dirt with pink and blue candy made quite a spectacle. The little boy came and jumped up on Mr. Proud's lap and offered him a lick from the stick.
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet and the little lad landed on the floor in surprise. He was pushing the youngster away at the same time brushing off his navy blue pin stripe suit.
Joey, the little boy, started to cry. He had never been treated like that before. He thought that everybody that came to his daddy's office liked children. CP hurriedly came from his desk to check on Joey's condition. When he was sure that he was okay, just startled from being dropped on the floor, he said, "Mr. Proud I would like you to meet my son, Joey."
I. M. Proud was flabbergasted and for once was speechless. CP continued, "Thank you for coming to the interview. You are a man of many talents but because of your haughty self interests, I will not be able to use you to guard my treasures."
I. M. Proud spoke bitterly and with sarcasm, "I can see where I am not wanted. Good day CP. Cotton candy and a dirty face, how disgusting!" With a grimace, he walked out of the office.
When I. M. Proud was gone, Joey ran to his daddy, "Did I do okay, Daddy?"
CP grabbed Joey and swirled him around "You did great!" then both of them sat on the floor and ate cotton candy until both their hands were all sticky with the pink melted sugar.
CP wondered if he would ever find the right person to guard his valued treasure. The next person was waiting for an interview. CP washed his hands and face, straightened his clothes and called the next person in.
Ms. Lookat Me
Ms. Lookat Me came strolling into the office and, as she passed CP, she handed him her business card. Her card was a miniature of herself, exact and perfect in every way. Ms. Me was very fashionably dressed. CP was taken back by her natural beauty and poise. With such a pleasant appearance maybe this young lady could be the one chosen for the position.
"Ms. Lookat Me," CP started the interview, "tell me why you seek the position?"
"Oh, I just know that I am the one to look after your museum. I would show people the precious jewels and tell how beautiful they would be. I would organize tours, and advertise the hours that people could come and visit." While she spoke she fluffed her hair as though getting ready for a photo take. "I would make lots of money by charging people an entrance fee." She paused for a moment as if thinking.
"Of course, I would be the spokesperson for any media coverage, such as newspapers or television interviews."
CP had an idea. "Ms. Me would you excuse me for a moment" CP walked from the room and then hurried down the hall.
Soon an old man with thick glasses came limping into the room with a dust mop and cleaning supplies. "Hello there," he slurred in a thick, broken accent, "I am Peter, the Clean-Up Superintendent." After laughing at his own joke, he explained, "I am the janitor here." Sticking out his hand to shake Ms. Me's hand, he realized he had some grease on it and wiped them on his coveralls. Ms. Me turned her back on him with an expression of disgust.
"Would you help me move the desk a little. I need to clean under it." Peter inquired.
Ms. Lookat Me threw her head back and declared, "I am waiting for Mr. CP to return and I would hate to be seen helping you when he came back."
Peter finished cleaning by himself then hurried from the office. He entered the custodial room and in a few moments CP emerged from the door.
CP returned and as Ms. Lookat Me stood to her feet, he shook her hand. "Thank you for coming. I am sure that it must have been difficult to get away from your busy schedule. At this present time I cannot use you to guard my valued treasures. The mirror of the inner man reflects that you would be more interested in getting your picture taken, than in laying down your life in protecting my precious stones." He then led Ms. Me to the door. As she left the office she looked at her hand. It had grease on it.
Ms. Me realized too late that she had been a victim of her own vanity. Anger swelling in her mind and with a blush of embarrassment she strutted from the building thinking that it would be beneath her character anyway to look after some stupid rocks.
Mr. Willing N. Able
As CP stood at the window and watched Ms. Me walk briskly to the parking lot, he noticed another gentleman coming towards the building. With a walking stick in one hand and sneakers on his feet, this man had an ageless quality about him. As he came closer CP could see that the man seemed to be enjoying his walk.
Within a few minutes there was a knock on the office door. CP opened the door and there stood the gentleman with a smile on his face. CP invited him to come in and have a seat, and asked, "What can I do for you?"
"I am Willing N. Able, but you can just call me Willing. If you have not already found a person to guard your jewels, I am interested in applying."
CP asked "Mr. Able, why do you want to work for me?"
"I have had some years of experience in looking after the valuables of others. Although I don't pretend to know everything about high level security, I am willing to learn as I go. If you had some courses in mind concerning guarding the treasures, I would be ready to take them. I will give you my best effort to make sure that your gems would be safe."
Not in a boasting manner, Willing N. Able continued," I have always tried to work with excellence as my guiding motto, knowing that whatever I do is done as unto the Lord so that He would be pleased and honoured with my life. If you are interested, I can supply you with references of my past jobs and positions. I did my best for them and always tried to bring honour to the Lord."
CP was finding Mr. Able very interesting even refreshing to listen to. "Mr. Able,"
"Just call me Willing."
"OK, Willing, what would you do if robbers broke in and tried to steal my jewels?"
Mr. Able didn't hesitate to answer. "I would do everything in my power to protect your valuable treasures. If I died protecting them, then I would only be doing my duty but I wouldn't just lay down and let them walk over me." Getting excited as though he was actually living the scene he was describing, he began to wave his walking stick. "I would even use my stick if they got too close." Then with a big bang, he hit the desk. The noise startled both of them and they jumped. The bang brought Mr. Willing Able back to reality.
Willing laughed from embarrassment and apologized to CP for hitting the desk.
CP replied, "That's okay, no harm done. I was equally lost in your story."
Willing smiled, "My stick might make a big goose egg but my real help is in the Name of the Lord for He is my defender and shield. I do know that I would guard your jewels as though they were my very own. I have my own family and there is no price that is too great to pay in order to protect them."
CP stood up. "Willing, I would like to offer you the position as guide and guardian of my Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire. For the service that you will give and for your attitude you will be rewarded handsomely."
Mr. Willing Able beamed, "I can't thank you enough for giving me a chance. You won't be disappointed."
"I know." announced CP, "Welcome to the team."
" Come on I want to show you your charges."
As they started out the door Joey came charging in, "Look, Daddy, I just found a shiny black stone. This is the start of my treasure collection."
Willing bent down and looked at the gleaming hunk of common coal. "If it is fine with your daddy maybe we could find a place in the museum for your collection. Who knows it may contain a diamond." With that he gave Joey a hug and ruffled his hair.
CP with a deep settled peace in his heart and a smile on his lips walked down the hall toward the entrance to the museum. On one side was Joey, his most precious jewel, and on the other side a gem of a new friend. CP thought on a verse that he had read that morning. " I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him." Looking up, CP prayed, "Thank you Lord that you are the keeper of my treasures."
"Amen to that!" smiled Willing N. Able.
* * * * *
The Bible says we are treasures in earthen clay jars, therefore the children that we have in our families, in our classes and in children's church, are great and costly gems. Our responsibility is to guard and to guide these jewels until Christ comes. They need to be polished and honoured but protected from the thieves and robbers of our soul. As Children's pastors (CPs) who do we want to be in charge of these precious little ones?
The vain who just want to be in the spot light?
The proud and boastful in their own talents and abilities but who can not enjoy the sticky fingers of children?
The I don't cares, who are just in it for the money?
Or
Someone who is willing to be a servant unto Christ, who does his or her best?
Someone who is trainable and only settles for excellence?
Someone who has some experience, loves kids and are willing to lay down their lives for them, and whose dependence is in Christ Jesus and not in their own abilities?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) Joel Heimbecker, 1998
He had searched a long time for the treasure. Soon now he would have the most valuable jewels in the world. He had paid the price and was now waiting for the delivery.
CP, for that is what every one called him, stretched out in his office and dreamed of holding the ruby, emerald, and sapphire. He could imagine everyone wanting to view the treasures that would soon belong to him. He wanted to protect them but then it would be a shame to hide their beauty.
CP decided to build a museum that would house these very expensive, one of a kind gems. They would be polished by the best in the field. "After all," CP thought, "you spend your life savings on getting these gems, then you want the finest and most experienced stone cutter to style them so the facets are shown to perfection - no matter the cost." The lighting would be designed so that it would dance off the stones. Their glory causing the walls and ceiling to sparkle. Everything just had to be right. Each small detail must be considered. The right back drop, the correct construction, climate controlled, soft music playing, enhancing the atmosphere so when people saw the ruby, sapphire and emerald their attention would be drawn to the creator of such exquisite jewels.
Construction began immediately. CP wanted to be ready when the gems arrived. People commented on the construction of the rooms and the layout of the future exhibits. The design and interior decorating were excellent. Once every thing was ready the gems arrived.
CP personally unpacked each jewel. First came the ruby. As he lifted it from the packing the sun flashed off the stone. The brilliance was much richer than he expected. In awe and crying with joy, CP held the ruby in his hands. Turning his eyes heavenward, he said aloud, "If You can make a stone so beautiful, how much more is Your beauty." CP knew that this ruby would be the first in the exhibit. To protect it from the oily, sticky hands of those who would want to touch it, CP put it in a glass case under lock and key.
The second jewel to be lifted from its crate was the emerald. CP had seen other emeralds but there was no comparison to the magnificence that he now held in his hands. He had thought maybe of putting all the stones in one dispay case. Now he knew that each gem needed to be put in a showcase of its own. As with the ruby, CP put the emerald into a glass case, placing it upon the velvet.
Now CP turned his attention to the last crate to be unpacked. It housed his sapphire. When he removed the lid the sapphire sparkled among the packing. Although the gem was delicate, its beauty and splendour was breathtaking. As with the others, the wonder of God who could create such matchless beauty hidden under the dirt caused tears to run down CP"S cheeks. After all, was he not himself a treasure that God had pulled from the ash heap? Once the sapphire was placed in its glass case, CP wanted to show the whole world.
Thinking about his treasure CP realized that he could not be at the museum all of the time. He had to sleep and eat. Who would protect the treasure? If it were not protected thieves could break in and steal his rare gems. He had to find somebody who would watch over the museum and the treasure. Someone he could trust. He would advertise for a security guard.
Idont Care
The first applicant arrived. CP took notice of his appearance. His hair was uncombed. His teeth were not brushed. It also appeared that he had not changed his clothes for many days. CP really wondered if this person even cared about himself, but remembering the old saying, "You can't judge a book by its cover!" CP continued with the interview.
CP asked, "Are you willing to guard my treasure with the best of your ability and even go as far as to give your life in protecting them?"
Idont Care wanted to know how much he would get paid.
CP responded "We haven't even talked about money, and you want to know your pay. Do you really care for my treasure?"
Idont stretched and said that if robbers would come he would let them steal the jewels after all he was more important than some pieces of stone. No, he was just looking for a job and if he could sleep on the job, now and then, that would be OK with him.
CP said, "You are not the person I have in mind for this position."
Idont Care shrugged his shoulders, "Well if you can't find any body else, keep me in mind. I can always use a few extra bucks." As Idont slunk out the door, he said, "See ya around!"
I. M. Proud
CP had to find someone to guard his valued treasures when he was not around. Maybe the next applicant would meet the standard. The applicant strode into the office with an air of confidence. He stuck out his hand and shook CP's hand vigorously. "Pleased to meet you, Proud's my name, I. M. Proud. I hear you are looking for someone to guard your little gems. Well I want you to know that you have got the right man."
I. M. Proud was wearing a finely tailored suit which in spite of its fit could not hide the bulging muscles. His sun bleached hair and tanned skin were rivalled only by the gold jewelry that flashed as he spoke. CP tried to talk but Proud just kept right on going.
CP finally went to his desk and sat down and pulled out a pad of paper. CP started to write a message on the paper. When I. M. Proud realized that CP was really not paying attention to him he started to pout and went and sat down in a chair.
CP looked up and with a kindly smile asked, "What would you do if robbers tried to steal my jewels? Are you willing to die in protecting them?"
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet. "Of course I would protect them. They wouldn't get hurt while I was on duty. Like I said I haven't seen a person yet who could beat me. As you can see on my resume, I have lots of ability."
CP made a quick phone call while I. M. Proud continued boasting about his accomplishments. Suddenly a child burst into the room eating cotton candy. The melted candy had stuck to his hands and to his face. The mixture of brown dirt with pink and blue candy made quite a spectacle. The little boy came and jumped up on Mr. Proud's lap and offered him a lick from the stick.
I. M. Proud jumped to his feet and the little lad landed on the floor in surprise. He was pushing the youngster away at the same time brushing off his navy blue pin stripe suit.
Joey, the little boy, started to cry. He had never been treated like that before. He thought that everybody that came to his daddy's office liked children. CP hurriedly came from his desk to check on Joey's condition. When he was sure that he was okay, just startled from being dropped on the floor, he said, "Mr. Proud I would like you to meet my son, Joey."
I. M. Proud was flabbergasted and for once was speechless. CP continued, "Thank you for coming to the interview. You are a man of many talents but because of your haughty self interests, I will not be able to use you to guard my treasures."
I. M. Proud spoke bitterly and with sarcasm, "I can see where I am not wanted. Good day CP. Cotton candy and a dirty face, how disgusting!" With a grimace, he walked out of the office.
When I. M. Proud was gone, Joey ran to his daddy, "Did I do okay, Daddy?"
CP grabbed Joey and swirled him around "You did great!" then both of them sat on the floor and ate cotton candy until both their hands were all sticky with the pink melted sugar.
CP wondered if he would ever find the right person to guard his valued treasure. The next person was waiting for an interview. CP washed his hands and face, straightened his clothes and called the next person in.
Ms. Lookat Me
Ms. Lookat Me came strolling into the office and, as she passed CP, she handed him her business card. Her card was a miniature of herself, exact and perfect in every way. Ms. Me was very fashionably dressed. CP was taken back by her natural beauty and poise. With such a pleasant appearance maybe this young lady could be the one chosen for the position.
"Ms. Lookat Me," CP started the interview, "tell me why you seek the position?"
"Oh, I just know that I am the one to look after your museum. I would show people the precious jewels and tell how beautiful they would be. I would organize tours, and advertise the hours that people could come and visit." While she spoke she fluffed her hair as though getting ready for a photo take. "I would make lots of money by charging people an entrance fee." She paused for a moment as if thinking.
"Of course, I would be the spokesperson for any media coverage, such as newspapers or television interviews."
CP had an idea. "Ms. Me would you excuse me for a moment" CP walked from the room and then hurried down the hall.
Soon an old man with thick glasses came limping into the room with a dust mop and cleaning supplies. "Hello there," he slurred in a thick, broken accent, "I am Peter, the Clean-Up Superintendent." After laughing at his own joke, he explained, "I am the janitor here." Sticking out his hand to shake Ms. Me's hand, he realized he had some grease on it and wiped them on his coveralls. Ms. Me turned her back on him with an expression of disgust.
"Would you help me move the desk a little. I need to clean under it." Peter inquired.
Ms. Lookat Me threw her head back and declared, "I am waiting for Mr. CP to return and I would hate to be seen helping you when he came back."
Peter finished cleaning by himself then hurried from the office. He entered the custodial room and in a few moments CP emerged from the door.
CP returned and as Ms. Lookat Me stood to her feet, he shook her hand. "Thank you for coming. I am sure that it must have been difficult to get away from your busy schedule. At this present time I cannot use you to guard my valued treasures. The mirror of the inner man reflects that you would be more interested in getting your picture taken, than in laying down your life in protecting my precious stones." He then led Ms. Me to the door. As she left the office she looked at her hand. It had grease on it.
Ms. Me realized too late that she had been a victim of her own vanity. Anger swelling in her mind and with a blush of embarrassment she strutted from the building thinking that it would be beneath her character anyway to look after some stupid rocks.
Mr. Willing N. Able
As CP stood at the window and watched Ms. Me walk briskly to the parking lot, he noticed another gentleman coming towards the building. With a walking stick in one hand and sneakers on his feet, this man had an ageless quality about him. As he came closer CP could see that the man seemed to be enjoying his walk.
Within a few minutes there was a knock on the office door. CP opened the door and there stood the gentleman with a smile on his face. CP invited him to come in and have a seat, and asked, "What can I do for you?"
"I am Willing N. Able, but you can just call me Willing. If you have not already found a person to guard your jewels, I am interested in applying."
CP asked "Mr. Able, why do you want to work for me?"
"I have had some years of experience in looking after the valuables of others. Although I don't pretend to know everything about high level security, I am willing to learn as I go. If you had some courses in mind concerning guarding the treasures, I would be ready to take them. I will give you my best effort to make sure that your gems would be safe."
Not in a boasting manner, Willing N. Able continued," I have always tried to work with excellence as my guiding motto, knowing that whatever I do is done as unto the Lord so that He would be pleased and honoured with my life. If you are interested, I can supply you with references of my past jobs and positions. I did my best for them and always tried to bring honour to the Lord."
CP was finding Mr. Able very interesting even refreshing to listen to. "Mr. Able,"
"Just call me Willing."
"OK, Willing, what would you do if robbers broke in and tried to steal my jewels?"
Mr. Able didn't hesitate to answer. "I would do everything in my power to protect your valuable treasures. If I died protecting them, then I would only be doing my duty but I wouldn't just lay down and let them walk over me." Getting excited as though he was actually living the scene he was describing, he began to wave his walking stick. "I would even use my stick if they got too close." Then with a big bang, he hit the desk. The noise startled both of them and they jumped. The bang brought Mr. Willing Able back to reality.
Willing laughed from embarrassment and apologized to CP for hitting the desk.
CP replied, "That's okay, no harm done. I was equally lost in your story."
Willing smiled, "My stick might make a big goose egg but my real help is in the Name of the Lord for He is my defender and shield. I do know that I would guard your jewels as though they were my very own. I have my own family and there is no price that is too great to pay in order to protect them."
CP stood up. "Willing, I would like to offer you the position as guide and guardian of my Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire. For the service that you will give and for your attitude you will be rewarded handsomely."
Mr. Willing Able beamed, "I can't thank you enough for giving me a chance. You won't be disappointed."
"I know." announced CP, "Welcome to the team."
" Come on I want to show you your charges."
As they started out the door Joey came charging in, "Look, Daddy, I just found a shiny black stone. This is the start of my treasure collection."
Willing bent down and looked at the gleaming hunk of common coal. "If it is fine with your daddy maybe we could find a place in the museum for your collection. Who knows it may contain a diamond." With that he gave Joey a hug and ruffled his hair.
CP with a deep settled peace in his heart and a smile on his lips walked down the hall toward the entrance to the museum. On one side was Joey, his most precious jewel, and on the other side a gem of a new friend. CP thought on a verse that he had read that morning. " I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him." Looking up, CP prayed, "Thank you Lord that you are the keeper of my treasures."
"Amen to that!" smiled Willing N. Able.
* * * * *
The Bible says we are treasures in earthen clay jars, therefore the children that we have in our families, in our classes and in children's church, are great and costly gems. Our responsibility is to guard and to guide these jewels until Christ comes. They need to be polished and honoured but protected from the thieves and robbers of our soul. As Children's pastors (CPs) who do we want to be in charge of these precious little ones?
The vain who just want to be in the spot light?
The proud and boastful in their own talents and abilities but who can not enjoy the sticky fingers of children?
The I don't cares, who are just in it for the money?
Or
Someone who is willing to be a servant unto Christ, who does his or her best?
Someone who is trainable and only settles for excellence?
Someone who has some experience, loves kids and are willing to lay down their lives for them, and whose dependence is in Christ Jesus and not in their own abilities?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) Joel Heimbecker, 1998
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