The Art of Loving Preschoolers
“Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” — 1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NIV)
I have been an art collector for more than 20 years. My prized collection contains work from multiple budding artists and features a variety of subject matter including portraitures and landscapes and an assortment of mediums (such as watercolors and pencils). Each piece is one of a kind.
In truth, the gallery, which is proudly displayed on the interior doors of a supply closet in the preschool and children’s department at my church, may not be deemed valuable by most. But to me, each work of art is a masterpiece that brings me great joy.
The pencil portraits that characterize me with a large head, but rarely a nose, or the watercolor rainbows that drip down the page remind me that I have the distinct privilege and immense joy of loving and being loved by preschoolers.
Paul, the writer of 1 Thessalonians, faithfully taught, fervently prayed, and tirelessly worked in order that the Thessalonians would hear the good news of Jesus. But perhaps most impactfully, Paul loved those whom God entrusted to him to lead.
First Thessalonians 2:8 makes clear that love and the fellowship that resulted from it brought Paul great delight, much like Jesus delights in His love for us.
As Mission Friends leaders, we have the unique opportunity to lead preschoolers to become aware that God’s heart is for all people to know Him and worship Him. We also have the great joy of finding countless things to love about them and of being loved by them in return, often in the form of warm hugs, genuine smiles, and sometimes, crayon-colored masterpieces.
May we find joy in watching preschoolers grow toward God and in sharing in their lives. And may we see each preschooler God has entrusted to us in Mission Friends as the masterwork our Heavenly Father created him or her to be.
Prayer:
Father God, Thank You for entrusting me with the privilege and responsibility of leading preschoolers to understand You love them and You love all people. As I teach about Your great love, may my words and my actions demonstrate it. May I find delight in each preschooler I lead and may I be continually mindful that being invited to share the good news of Jesus with them is a precious gift. In Jesus’ name, amen.
by Alison Howell