Colossians 3:12-14
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,
clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you
has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over
all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect
unity.
Someone is always watching.
One thing I know about children: They pay attention and
listen, especially when we may not want them to. In other words, children mimic
their parents, grandparents, teachers, and anyone else they spend time with.
In September, I attended Grandparents’ Day at my
granddaughter’s school. We convened in the gym at tables covered with brown craft
paper and set up with cups of crayons. The staff served muffins, cookies, and
punch and welcomed us with smiles. My granddaughter Ella Cate loves to draw, so
this was the perfect set-up for us. We spent time together drawing dogs and
cats and chatting about school. I loved sitting with her and sharing this
special time.
At a gathering with children, I’m reminded of the many lives
being formed and influenced by adults. I can’t help but wonder what they see
and hear. As a child, I wanted to be like my second-grade teacher, Miss Mercer.
I only had her for six weeks of second grade because we moved into her school district
late in the year. She was a gentle, kind teacher who took extra time to catch
me up on phonics. I loved and admired her and still remember her sweet
personality.
As a believer and follower of Jesus, I’m aware of the traits
God wants me to show others. I am particularly alert to how I influence
children. I don’t always get it right, but I try to be a good example to my
grandkids, the children I help in my daughter’s class once a week, and any
other kids I am fortunate enough to interact with. I’m not just talking about
the little ones, I’m talking teens and tweens, too.
As adults, we have a responsibility to show compassion,
kindness, humility, gentleness and patience to the kids who depend on us
to teach them well. When children see love in action, they are more likely to show it too.
Jesus loved the children. He talked with them and showed
them love. Let’s do the same.
