A Special Event

Bible Reading: Romans 12:1

“My class is going on a field trip to see Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home,” Ashlynn told her parents. “We’ve been learning about him, and I need to get books from the library and write a report on his life.”

“That’s great,” said Mom. “I’m sure learning about him before the trip will make it more enjoyable.” So Ashlynn set to work, reading books about George Washington and writing her report.

When Ashlynn arrived home after the field trip, she told her parents about the good time she’d had. “It was so much fun to see the things and places I’d read about,” she said. “I even knew some things the guide didn’t mention.”

After eating breakfast the next Sunday, Dad stood up to help Ashlynn clear the table. “Okay, Ashlynn. Let’s hear your memory verse before we leave for church,” he said.

“Um, well, I…I don’t know it yet,” Ashlynn confessed. “I was too busy this week. I’ll go study it right now.” Seeing Dad frown, she hurried off before he could reply.

Learning the verse took longer than Ashlynn expected, and she had to hurry to get ready for church. When it was time to leave, her hair wasn’t quite dry and she couldn’t find her Bible. After hunting a few minutes, she finally shrugged and ran out to the car without it.

After church, Ashlynn sighed as she got into the car. “I haven’t been getting much out of church lately,” she said.

“Ashlynn,” said Mom, “why did you do a lot of reading and write a report about Mount Vernon before going on your trip there?”

“My teacher said I had to,” Ashlynn replied. “But I’m glad, because learning about it ahead of time made it more special!”

Mom nodded. “Why don’t you do the same for church? Prepare for it by setting aside some time the night or morning before to read your Bible, learn your verse for Sunday school, and ask God to prepare your heart for church. See if that doesn’t help you get more out of it.”

“Good idea,” said Dad. “And even if there are still times when you don’t feel like you’re getting much out of church, remember the real reason you’re there—to worship God with other believers.” – Mary Rose Pearson

How About You?

Do you enjoy going to church? Have you tried preparing for it ahead of time? You can do that by giving yourself time beforehand to read your Bible and pray that God will use the church service to speak to the hearts of you and others. When you get to church, set your mind on worshiping God and learning more about Him with other believers. You may find that church can be one of the special events of your week.

Today’s Key Verse:
Psalm 122:1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.”

Today’s Key Thought:

Prepare for church