Day of the Child
April 12, 2016
It is my privilege to speak on a regular basis at Summit Bible Church, in Summit IL and that is where we were this past Sunday. Summit is one of the projects under the oversight of Midwest Church Extension. It is also the host church for our Hispanic Ministry under Jose Marco. Summit is more than 60% Hispanic and God is providing opportunities to reach that community with the Gospel. On this past Sunday I learned that they are planing a “Day of the Child Festival”. Day of the Child is a holiday that is celebrated in many Central and South American countries. The actual date of celebration differs but the theme is the same.
Mexico celebrates the day on April 30. The day is typically filled with a variety of activities, fun and gifts.
On the Day of the Child, the primary focus is on making children feel special and appreciated. Special events are conducted with clowns, illusionists, music, puppet shows, balloons, and a wide variety of amusements. Zoos, museums and other centers of interest for children offer discounts and special deals.
Organizations often collect toy donations from citizens. On this special day those toys are distributed to orphans and needy children as a way of literally “making their day.” Toys related to war or that require batteries to operate are generally not accepted. It is a holiday full of laughter and fun for the children … and one when adults are reminded of the importance of childhood and children teach us how joyful and simple life can be.
In this nation of ours, that comes nigh unto celebrating abortion, holding up the murder of untold numbers of children in the womb as a sign of cultural progress, it is refreshing to find those who celebrate the life of a child! Summit Bible Church is using this special day as an occasion to sponsor a neighborhood festival at which children will be recognized not only for their importance, but in relation to their need for the Gospel.
Pray for Summit, pray for the folks of Summit Bible Church, pray for the children!
Tim