It's What We Anticipate

Why My Children Love To Go To Church: Part 2

We "build the anticipation".

We talk about going to church. It has become a part of our weekly routine. Going to church is something we plan and prepare for. On Saturday night, we start getting ready. The children shower/bathe, wash hair, lay out "church clothes" and including socks and shoes. We gather Bibles, offerings, purse, keys, and anything else we need to take with us is placed by the door. Coats are laid out on the sofa by the door, so in the morning there is no scrambling for a missing coat or shoe.

freshly bathed beauties all ready for bed

Anything and everything that can be done the night before, we do it.
We keep breakfast simple. Box cereal is a treat for our kids, so many times that is what we eat on Sunday mornings. We set the table the night before, too.

L~ all dressed up for church Easter morning, 2007

We strive for an early bedtime, not just for the kiddos, but also for us. Getting up before the kids is extremely helpful to a calm and peaceful morning.

Needless to say, these are our goals and we strive to make this normal routine. However, sometimes something falls through the cracks, and we scramble. But having these goals helps immensely.

J~lookin' sharp Easter morning 2007

All this prep work sends a message to the children. It's like preparing for a birthday party, or a grandparents visit, or even Christmas. When you make a big deal about something, and spend time getting ready before it happens- it sends vibes that that something is important and exciting. Sunday is NOT just another day! My kids feel that. I am blessed that they do!

"Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy."
Exodus 20:8