I’m a Dad.
I’m a Grandpa.
Actually I’m a “Pappy.”
And I love it.
In my years as a parent and grandparent, kids have taught me one simple truth: They learn by watching.
When we hear about something, we become interested. But when we see something, it becomes very real. What you believe about the gospel, people, and mission must be visible.
Don’t think that show-and-tell necessarily means international travel — although involvement in cross-cultural opportunities is an excellent developmental tool. But it’s also possible for kids to develop an understanding of their world through other resources.
Get a globe. Hang a map on the wall. You’ll be amazed how even a small child can connect to the world from their wall. Point out countries on the map that they’re curious about. Read a book or watch a movie about missionaries and talk about what your kids think.
If your church supports missionaries, explore creative ways to learn about those countries with your kids.
Gather pictures of people from that part of the world.
Listen to multicultural music.
Cook ethnic food and pray for believers living in those countries.
Show them how to connect the dots between their own community and their world.
Your kids will learn how to interact with their world through how you interact with your world.
From conversations with cashiers at the grocery store, to mumbled asides during rush hour traffic, be aware that what you believe about missions is constantly being lived out in front of watching eyes and open ears.
This post is part of a seven-part series from Brian’s Rhodes’ book 11 Ways to Give Your Kids a Heart for the Nations. To order the full book, click here. We’ll continue to highlight Brian’s content through March as part of our 60-in-60 campaign. We hope you enjoy it!
