Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Bottom Line:

You can be a party starter. 

Scripture:

Read Matthew 5:14-16

Devotion:

The room is dark. Bright streamers are carefully twisted and draped from corner to corner. Balloons are inflated and scattered around the floor. The table is full of party food favorites. And most importantly, if you listen carefully enough, you’ll hear hushed whispers of loved ones, gathered and hiding in various nooks of the room, doing everything they can to contain their excitement until the right moment.

The door slowly opens. Someone switches on the light. “SURPRISE!” everyone shouts at once, as they all jump to their feet and reveal themselves to the person at the door whose expression is filled with both shock and gratitude.

There’s nothing quite like a surprise party! I think one of the things I love most is that the party doesn’t really even begin until those lights come on. After all, what’s the purpose of a surprise party without the guest of honor? The room doesn’t illuminate until they enter it.

As believers, we’ve been given the charge to start the party every single day as we choose to turn on the light for this world. We can do this by how we live, love others, and point them to the guest of honor: Jesus. Unfortunately, this is a lot more challenging than making tasty food and hanging a few fancy decorations. You know this because you selflessly lead and love your family every day. Parenting is one of the biggest ways you can shine your light! 

Your children are influenced by what they see in you. They watch how you treat your neighbor, talk about your co-workers, serve a friend and take care of so many family details. They may not say thank you, but your kids are experiencing your light in every smile, every hug, every encouraging word. Keep bringing the light of Jesus into your home! 

1. Who has been a source of 'light' in your life? God is the giver of every good gift. 

2. How can you provide opportunities for your family to serve together and sine your light to those around you? 

Prayer 

Dear God, thank you for choosing us to help introduce others to you! We pray that every child at Kids Camp is inspired to be a light in this world. Through the years, may each child know you more and discover the unique purpose you've given them to start the party and shine your light wherever they go! We pray in Jesus' name, Amen. 

School Supply Collection Information