Pastor's Page

CHILDREN are a gift from God. Psalm 127:3 proclaims that "Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from Him." As believers we are called to recognize that children belong first and foremost to God. God in his goodness gives children as gifts to parents. They not only have the awesome responsibility of caring for this gift, but also the wonderful privilege of enjoying the gift. Because children belong to God and are given by grace as gifts to parents, it is only proper and appropriate that children be dedicated back to God.

WE are told in 1 Samuel 1 that Hannah presented her son Samuel to the Lord. In Luke 2:22 we read that Mary and Joseph brought their baby Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem in order to present him before the Lord. In the same way, parents today bring their son or daughter, presenting first themselves and then their (SON/DAUGHTER) before the Lord our God.

DEDICATING a child acknowledges God's sovereignty not only over the child, but also Mom and Dad. Parents present their child before God and His people asking for grace and wisdom in carrying out their responsibilities. Parents also come praying that their child might one day trust Jesus Christ as Savior for the forgiveness of sin.

DEUTERONOMY 6:4-7, commands parents to love God; if they truly wish for their child to one day love and follow God, their lives must be an example. The parents need to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Second, Deuteronomy makes clear that the duty of teaching children belongs to parents; Sunday schools can provide weekly instruction, but parents must seize the teachable moments that arise throughout life.

FINALLY, I ask that the church make a vow as well. There's an old proverb that says "it takes a village to raise a child." Parents have first responsibility. But parents need the help and support of the Victory family. As believers in the body of Christ, we have a responsibility to teach the Gospel story to our younger generation. Dedicating your child is much more than a ritual. It is a declaration of faith for both the parents, the child and the Church.