Children Open to Gospel
Sunday, 7 March 2010
Last Tuesday evening, in the middle of the pouring rain, about
30 people gathered together in the youth hall to pray for those who
have not yet found Jesus. We began with a number briefly sharing
how they first met Christ. It's wonderful hearing the stories of
how our heavenly Father searches for us. I was struck by how many
people had some sort of encounter with God as children or placed
their faith in Christ as a child. I read in the most recent edition
of the Queensland Baptist magazine, that 80-85% of people who
become Christians do so before the age of 14. Our ministry to
children and young people in this church is of great importance.
Those teaching our children every week at GiG are engaged in
sharing truth with some of the most responsive hearts that Jesus
finds on our planet. How we thank God for those who are investing
their lives in the children here at Bridgeman this very day. As
parents our calling is to sacrifice our lives, so our children can
hear and respond when they are so open to the voice of the Holy
Spirit. Keep bringing them, keep encouraging them and those
ministering to them and keep praying much. What a joy that over 80
Grade 7-12's plus 20 leaders are away on camp this weekend at
Coolum. What story might be told in a prayer meeting 30 years from
now that will include the weekend of a Bridgeman youth camp where a
faith journey began?
But it is not only children and young people for whom our good
Father is searching. Over the next couple of months we are going to
hear some wonderful stories from adults whom the Lord has found, as
men and women tell some of their spiritual journey as they are
baptised. A very special season lies before us as a church as we
conclude the Prodigal God series with "The feast of the Father,"
and then reflect again on the sacrifice and hope of the
Easter story. If you know someone who is seeking to connect with
God than make sure you invite them to one of the services we are
holding over Easter. This year, as well as our two Good Friday
services, we are also holding for the first time a Thursday evening
service 7 - 8pm. This will be the same as our Good Friday service
but will enable those who are heading away to have the opportunity
to share in an Easter service.
In the week ahead we are especially praying for those who are in
need of God's healing and strengthening in their lives. Next Sunday
we are holding our first Prayer and Healing service for
this year at 3.00pm in the main auditorium. If you a special need
then we warmly invite you to come and share in this service or to
invite someone else to come to this service where there will be
opportunity for public or private prayer.
Jesus welcomed the crowds (including the children)
spoke to them about the Kingdom of God and healed those who
needed healing. (Luke 9:11)
Peter