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Eventually, everything we make leaves this table.
We can design the graphic.
Randy can prepare the wall decal.
We can print the banner, finish it, package it and send it on its way.
Then something much more important happens.
You put it in front of a child.
And that's where the real work begins.
A Wall Can't Do This Alone
A wall graphic can't notice when a child walks into the room discouraged.
It can't remember a child's name.
It can't sit beside someone who feels alone.
It can't encourage a child who wants to give up.
People do that.
But the environment surrounding those relationships can reinforce the truths those caring adults are already speaking.
A Run the Race graphic becomes more meaningful when a teacher encourages a child not to give up.
An image of Jesus Spending Time With Kids reinforces the message of a volunteer telling a child, Jesus loves you and you matter to Him.
A Scripture on a hallway wall becomes more than decoration when the adults surrounding that child live out the truth it communicates.
Speak It. Show It. Live It.
That's the challenge we're giving ourselves—and other adults who influence children.
Speak it.
Tell children what is true.
Show it.
Surround them with reminders of that truth.
Live it.
Let your actions give those words credibility.
That's when a children's ministry environment becomes more than a decorated space.
It becomes part of how we disciple children.
One Simple Question
The next time you walk through your children's ministry, stop and look around.
Ask yourself:
What is one truth I want every child who walks through here to remember?
Then look for opportunities to say it, show it and live it.
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