The saying “Silence is golden” is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt around the 3rd century B.C. This proverb reflects an appreciation for silence, and while that can often be true, silence is not always golden.
Recently, I have had the privilege of worshiping in many congregations, preaching and teaching the Word of God. Yet, in doing so, I have noticed an uncomfortable silence in many churches, one caused by the absence of young people and babies. As the years pass, congregations naturally lose members, and I fear that younger generations are not stepping in to fill the void. In these cases, the silence is not golden. It is deafening.
Children are a blessing! Remember this truth when we hear little voices during service or see small feet moving as we fellowship. The temptation is to overlook the blessings God has given us in these little ones. In Luke 9:47-48, Jesus declares:
“Jesus knew what they were thinking, and He had a child stand beside Him. Then He said to His disciples, ‘Whoever welcomes this little child in My name welcomes Me; and whoever welcomes Me welcomes the One who sent Me. For whoever is least among you all is the greatest”.
Though this passage primarily teaches humility, it also reveals Jesus’ deep love for the children. They held a special place in His heart and kingdom. Let us, too, embrace that same love, not just in word, but in how we welcome, nurture, and celebrate the presence of the next generation in God’s house. Where there are children, there is life, hope, and the joyful noise of God’s faithfulness echoing into the future.
Howard Odom