08/25/2026
(Back of Bulletin 8-23-26)
Back to School!!!
Monday, Aug 24, MT starts a new school year. Summer being over means that most of us will go back to our normal routines of work, school, picking up kids, sports, homework, projects, chores, showers, dinner, and bed… all to do it again the next day.
Helping our kids receive an education, be involved in the community, be faithful to their commitments, and have a disciplined life… are all part of the parenting responsibility. That is raising our children to be responsible and productive citizens.
HOWEVER, our greatest responsibility, is also the easiest to neglect… That is spiritual growth, the one with eternal rewards. Often, we can become satisfied raising “good kids”, and forget that our main calling is to teach them to love and follow Jesus. This does not happen automatically. This must be trained, taught, and displayed for them.
Here are 3 quick areas for parents and grandparents to focus.
1 – Prayer is Access. Prayer is not a ritual for religious people to use at church, mealtimes, or when someone is sick. It is the way God’s children can access the One we are dependent on. We must teach the importance of prayer, as well as practice it with them because of our loving intimacy with God.
2 – God’s Word is Power. We must teach and show that the Bible is not an intimidating or boring Book. If they see us love to read, study, and apply it… they will see the importance and power of it. They need to develop a love and desire to study God’s Word, so they can have a personal walk with Jesus Christ.
3 – God’s Church is Needed. We must teach that The Church is the body where God’s people are loved, challenged, and comforted by likeminded people. When our kids see us love the church, look forward to meetings, and be committed to her… They too will see the value in gathering.
Let’s use 2026 to help our kids know and follow Jesus more intimately,
- Pastor Ron Barker
