Sharing Prayer Time with Children
Prayers are whispered, spoken out loud and/or said in our thoughts. We pray for healing, for forgiveness, for guidance. We share prayers of thanksgiving and joy.
We pray during good times and during bad times.
Those prayers are always heard by God. We can be comforted knowing God is listening, whether we speak or the prayers are in our thoughts.
Children can be part of prayer, too. We often have children pray at meal time, thanking God for the food and the hands that have prepared the meal. Sweet rhyming songs of prayer offer memory making times.
Bedtime prayers are special, too. Words of thankfulness for the day, for our family and more often close the day and help prepare everyone for a restful night of sleep. A night time routine can bring peace and calm.
What about “anytime” prayers? Do we encourage children to pray during the day? Do we ask them to participate in prayers at times other than meals or bedtime?
The young ones are watching as the adults pray. Perhaps they may notice us with heads bowed, eyes closed and hands together.
One special bonding time with children can be through encouraging them to express their feelings to God in prayer.
The coronavirus has changed their school routine, their play time with friends and the day to day activities. The children may be missing their grandparents, cousins, and other relatives.
Feelings of doubt, fear and worry may be entering the minds of the young ones, as well as the adults. Instead of bottling up those feelings inside, let’s encourage everyone to share concerns. Family prayer time during the day can offer comfort.
Have you asked a child if they would like to pray with you? The answer may be no, but, the answer may be yes. This prayer time offers an opportunity for bonding and to share the love of God.
Remember, He is always available to hear our concerns and our joys.
Blessings and prayers,
Melissa Henderson