In most cases, to pass on the faith to others we need to show them our Joy. Our love of Christ in our words and actions, so they may be inspired. Intrigued as to what is the source of our light?
In a similar way we can do this for our children but we can go deeper with them. A few months ago I took part in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Catechist training. (If you are sending your children to the CGS program good on you! And if you aren’t I urge you to look into it. It is a beautiful work.)
It focuses on God’s love as the focus, particularly in the 3-6 atrium. I can still remember my instructor repeating that under the age of 6 children are in a sensitive period for love. This is why they avoid anything scary or confronting in those early stages in the program and focus on the strength and love of God.
I still remember the first time I read this quote, “We love, because He first loved us.” John 4:19 We can’t expect our children to love someone they do not know or understand. I have seen it in my children, they love Jesus so much, simply because they know He loves them. As parents we need to make a point of reminding our children of this. Tell them just how much Jesus loves them! Make Him a part of your conversations everyday. If they ask you questions about God, take that opportunity to pause and encourage wonder in them. Marvel at the love of God together.
Try to form a habit in them to please God. When teaching them about right and wrong, include Jesus in this conversation. When they are frightened remind them of the presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Pray with them and tell them just how much Jesus loves to hear their prayers!
Most of all, show the love of God in your own actions. Most people today do not believe in divine love because of the lack of love they experienced on earth. As mothers we are the primary example of love to our children. Let us love them the best we can, and when they are so full of love that it is about to overflow, we can tell that Jesus loves them 100 times more!
Originally posted 2015-08-11 12:00:45.