February 6

     The month’s theme is children and their care. You can note the emphasis in yesterdays ‘extra’. There are a couple of little points here to follow on. The first is that verse from the book of Acts. I had been going to church for a few months and the young intern was taking an afternoon programme. He read that verse. I couldn’t begin to understand it.

     Do you understand the word ‘haply’? Were you to read the verse to your child how would you explain that word? If you need to you would have to say that many years ago the word ‘perhaps’ was translated ‘haply’. Good for you if you can provide that explanation. You might think to use a more modern and child-friendly translation for your children. You might still need to explain 'perhaps' - but your children need ready access to the word of God. If you want your children to want to value reading and the Bible then they need to use a Bible written in their language.

     There is a more vital issue here. The teaching in the time of Jesus had become formal. My friend Steve spoke of one element of the preaching training he is receiving. We need to, he says, “preach and teach from the heart.” That was lacking in the time of Christ.

     Leave the issue of a world that may fail you and yours. Ignore the scare stories about preachers and teachers who place money and power above principle. Your children are depending on you. You are the Minister for your children.

     I spoke about planning for your child’s life. Plan to read with your children. But plan to make sure that you preach and teach from the heart. Invite Jesus into your heart today.