Teaching Kids to Light the World

It’s the most wonderful time of the year: Light the World! This initiative has helped millions world-wide and continues to gain traction every year. But many parents hesitate when they think about involving their kids. It can seem daunting and even exhausting. In James 1:22 it says, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Our role as parents is to help our children understand the importance of doing.

Is the importance of serving others part of your family culture? Does it come naturally to you and your kids? Doing so will instill a sense of selflessness in children. It just might benefit them far more than it might benefit the receiver. And the younger they start, the easier it will become. Here are some ways to help your children develop a love for serving others.

Know Your Why

In order to teach our children something, we need to know and believe it ourselves. Are you serving others so you can post a picture of it on social media? Do you want to be seen by your neighbors? Or are you giving out of pure love and a desire to become closer to God. You children will see right through you. And so will those in need.

Involve Yourself

Kids notice when their parents are involved. If they know that it’s important to you, it will be important to them. When you teach by example, your children will be more interested in serving from a young age and beyond. Actions speak much louder than words.

Include Everyone

On the other hand, parents can’t and shouldn’t do it all. Kids are capable of a lot more than we give them credit for. Get your older children and teens involved in the nitty-gritty. If you have little ones, let them help plan the service project. You might be surprised at the creativity and capacity of their kindness.

Simplify

Being asked to “light the world” doesn’t mean we have to use a giant spotlight that can be seen from space. When I use my little light, and you use your little light, together we will light the world. Service doesn’t have to be a big production. If we all do our part, it will make a big difference. So, do what you can, when you can.

Keep It Up

The “Light the World” initiative happens every December, but that doesn’t mean that we have to stop in January. There are people in need all year long. Find a time in your daily or weekly routine and do what you can. If you think it’s just not possible, may I suggest that you may be in need of some re-prioritizing of your life. Put your phone down and get to work.

We can all improve and do more to light the world, but if we implement these ideas, the world is sure to shine a little brighter this year.