My son’s little league team added a Wednesday evening practice. Our family made the decision that he would leave the practice early to attend our regular Wednesday evening church program. With a big game the following day, our decision seemed quite unpopular. This sentiment was expressed to me as another parent said, “You know just because you take your kid to church, doesn’t mean they will turn out perfect.”

A bit surprised, I responded with something ineloquent like, “Church is a priority to our family.” But what I wish I had the clarity on the moment to explain is that I don’t take my children to church because I want them to be perfect or live a mistake-free life. I take my children to church, so when they make a mistake…

• …they have learned who to turn to. I want them to know that God will always be there for them, even when I can’t be. I want them to have the assurance that in the midst of a mistake or any trouble they face, He will be their help. He will be the One who will never leave or forsake them. 

Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

Psalm 63:7 

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31:6

• …they know about the forgiveness of God. I want them to understand that there is absolutely no sin that the grace of God can not cover, because His love for them is abundant and unfailing. When they need forgiveness from a mistake, He will freely give it. 

You, Lord, are forgiving and good,
    abounding in love to all who call to you.

Psalm 86:5

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Hebrews 4:16

• …they will have friends who will be there for them. Friends that will help, support and steer them to God’s word when they make a mistake or poor choices. Friends that share a mindset and know how to live in unity under the grace of God.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

• …they will have people who will speak the truth of God’s Word and hold them accountable. Through the years of growing up in church my children have made peer friendships but they have also made relationships with people of all ages. Older students, teachers, family friends, and their youth pastor are all an integral part of their support system. Knowing other people are present, ready to give my child godly advice with love is another reason I want my children to go to church. 

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 

Hebrews 13:7

• …they come back to church because they will understand they are an important part of the church. They have a role to play in church: a place to be a part of a community, a place to serve, and a place to worship. Knowing these facts helps all of us move past our mistakes and get back to being a part of what God has purposed us to do. 

If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

1 Corinthians 12:26-27

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For me, the goal of church isn’t (and was never) perfection for myself or my children. It’s about worshiping the One who loves us and uses us in His plan despite our imperfections, through God’s sufficent grace and the support of His people. 

Church is about worshiping the One who loves us and uses us in His plan despite our imperfections, through God’s grace and His people. Marcy Martin #faith #parenthood

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