Bringing children to church is a difficult task. Not only do I commend these parents; I praise God for their efforts.

She stood on the pew trying to look over the adults who were standing for the opening part of the service. In her hand she held two dollars. Her dad had given her the money, and she was ready for the ushers. Of course, it was about 40 minutes away—a long time for a four-year-old—but she was ready.

That Sunday was a bit unusual for us. We were in the back with the children. Most of the time, we move closer to the front where it's a little quieter and easier to pay attention. But we were with our grandchildren, so we took a seat with the moms and dads who brought their little ones to church. I can understand why parents don't get to church too early. An hour is a long time to be quiet and sit still.

The children smiled when they came in, but not at us. They smiled at their friends who also came to church. Sometimes there was a tentative, almost secretive, wave of the fingers—a greeting and sign of recognition. While that happened, Mom put the carrying bag under the pew. She had prepared to keep them busy for the next hour. Together Mom and Dad made sure that everyone sat down quietly.

It didn't take long for everyone to get busy—not restless, just busy. The ups and downs of the service meant that Dad or Mom lifted a little one or made sure that the older ones were standing at the appropriate time. The ups and downs kept almost everyone occupied. And the singing helped. Then we sat down to listen quietly. It wasn't long before books, sippy cups, and snacks from the bag under the pew were put into little hands. The girl with the two dollars still had them, but now they were set aside for other things. One little girl was sleeping on her father's shoulder with a pacifier occasionally moving for needed comfort.

Bringing children to church is a difficult task. Not only do I commend these parents; I praise God for their efforts. They desire to bring the little children to the Savior for his blessing. I'm reminded of two lessons:

1) Don't underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit through the gospel even on children who wiggle and squirm in church.

2) Remember that these little ones believe. Our faith is to be like their simple trust in Jesus.

Do you wonder about the future of our church? If you do, then remember that the children are the future. You don't have to stand on the pew to peer into the future. You can't anyway. Look at the children God has given to us all. While you look, don't forget your offering. The ushers will come to collect it, and our offerings should be proportionate to how the Lord has blessed us—more than a four-year-old's two dollars, I think.