Watch Children
On this Children and Education Sunday, I am reminded of the yellow, diamond shaped traffic signs that read, “Watch Children.”“Watch Children” signs are placed to make drivers mindful of the safety of children that may be walking, running, or playing in the area. When I see these signs, I slow down, being careful of the presence of children. But these signs also cause me to reflect beyond what they mean for the safety of children.
What if we heeded this sign not simply as a warning to be cautious about traffic, but also as an invitation to life more fully and more alive? Watching children—and emulating some of their behaviors—may be helpful for the fullness of life and thriving for adults of all ages. Even Jesus reminded us in Matthew 18:3, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
We can watch the playfulness and imagination of children…
Children are naturally playful. At around three months of age, babies begin to smile in joyful response to the smiles of those around them. Toddlers can find pleasure in playing with almost anything—from manufactured toys to empty cardboard boxes.
Elementary school children look forward to recess when they can play with their friends. And teenagers, in all of their budding maturity, become energized at the opportunity to play. Play and imagination brings a sense of vitality that many adults would benefit from. When the care of life become overwhelming, simple play—like opening a fresh box of Crayola Crayons with a coloring book—can re-energize us for the tasks and decisions ahead.
We can watch the courage of children…
I am amazed when I watch small children playing on jungle gyms. They approach slides and monkey bars with a boldness that is inspiring. And they try, and try, and try to reach their goals and don’t stop until they’ve made it. Surely, small failures come, but they pick themselves up and keep trying. In an adult way, it is asking the question, “What would I do if I knew I could not fail?” and attempting the feat with audacity and grace.
We can watch the intimate connections of children…
Children thrive on touch. In addition to proper nutrition, human touch has crucial effects on physical and emotional growth of newborn babies. More than physical touch, emotional connection with others is also important to children. Children, unless they have been violated in some way, are some of the friendliest people on the planet. Children live deeply into the truth that no person is an island, and that human beings are created to be in relationship with each other. As adults, we can embrace our interconnectedness through everything from handshakes and hugs to telephone calls to our friends to let them know that we were thinking of them.
In addition to these, I’m sure there are many other beautiful lessons we can learn from the lives of children. So, I invite us to heed and obey the signs to “Watch Children” as we become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
Growing in Christ,
Pastor Donna Olivia Owusu-Ansah