It’s the most wonderful time of the year, with the kids jingle belling, and everyone telling you, “Be of good cheer!”
Well, let me (Melissa Chapman) tell you, the “kids jingle belling” this year is cranked up to 11! This past Sunday, over 40 miniature people—yes, forty!—showed up for our first Children’s Choir practice. I walked in to check it out, and let me tell you, my heart practically did a cartwheel. There was Derek Reisbeck up front, guitar in hand, leading these little worshippers while proud parents beamed from the sidelines. It was a beautiful snapshot of God’s gifts in action within our Grace family.
When Elissa Reisbeck and Rachel Jensen approached me last year about starting a children’s choir, I was thrilled. Why? Because it’s not my gifting! (I mean, unless you count singing in the car.) But that’s the beauty of the church—God brings people together with different gifts to build up the body. And seeing these kids sing their hearts out? That’s ministry in action.
Why Kids in Ministry Matter
Did you know that kids who get involved in church early are more likely to stay involved as they grow up? Choir is such a fantastic way to help that happen. It reinforces the importance of authority (hello, choir directors!), builds public confidence, and shows kids that they’re valuable worshippers in the Kingdom.
These days, it’s easy to think worship is something for the professionals—those with the perfect voices or polished performances. Even adults can slip into the mindset that church is more about spectating than participating. But when kids lead in worship, it reminds all of us that our voices matter to God. They don’t have to be perfect; they just have to be authentic. And isn’t that what worship is all about?
Join the Jingle
If your kids missed last week’s practice, no worries! We’d love to see them this Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the Refuge Room (just down the hall on the gym side of campus). Bring them, their energy, and maybe a little holiday cheer!
for the adults
As we head into the Christmas season, let’s take a cue from these kiddos. Imagine if we all sang God’s praises with the same enthusiasm, confidence, and joy. Imagine the glory that would rise to Him—the Highest, the One who deserves all our praise.
So, whether you’re a mini worshipper or a seasoned one, let’s make this Christmas a chorus of joy that reaches the heavens. After all, it really is the most wonderful time of the year.