The church that I was a part of in my childhood was very small. The members built it voluntarily with their own hands It was just one room with wooden chairs and a small platform at one end. There were no stained glass windows, no big pipe organ, not even a washroom or running water. But I learned a lot there.
1. Music. The little church formed a brass band for children. I learned to read music and to play a tuba. As an adult I was privileged to play in brass bands in other churches and to be part of a world-wide fellowship of musicians.
2. Public Speaking. The little church encouraged young people to stand up and speak in public. Through Christmas concerts, skits, and reading of the Bible in front of a congregation, I gained self-confidence. This was my foundation as I later became an elementary school teacher.
3. Teamwork. The little church formed various groups that worked together. There was a youth group for fun and games, a Bible study group for discussion, a band that played in services and outdoors. These prepared me to become a leader of various groups later in life.
4. Global Vision. The little church collected donations for the poor in developing countries. I went door-to-door in my neighborhood asking for donations to be sent to help feed and cloth the poor overseas. I continue today to have a heart for people all over the world. I now sponsor a child in a foreign country.
5. Self-Esteem. The little church taught me that I am a child of God. God loves me. Jesus saves me. I do not walk with bowed shoulders, but lift my head high and my eyes toward heaven.
I am so thankful for all the little churches whose members love the little children and encourage them to be the beautiful human beings that God intends them to be.
