Last week, the Children’s Leadership Team (CLT) and 15+ volunteers executed Restoration’s inaugural VBS. Our theme was “The Fruit of the Spirit.” It was such a fun and fruity few days! Over 40 children were welcomed into a time of learning, songs, Scripture, and putting it all into practice.
On the first day we dove into Galatians 5:22-23, and Genesis 1 and 2. Together we noticed attributes of fruit that might help us understand WHY the fruits of the Spirit are even called fruit.
On the second day, we became the twelve spies from Numbers 13 and 14 who were sent to scout out the Promised Land and report back to Moses. The children went into the “land” where they dodged giants looking for milk, honey, grapes, figs, and pomegranates. We asked ourselves, How do we hold on to the good things from God (like fruit) in the midst of scary things (like giants)?
Finally, we looked at fruit in the very last chapter of the Bible, Revelation 22. Here we learned that there is a tree AGAIN in the garden, but this time the tree will be the healing for all the nations.
As we wrapped up our time together, the children were encouraged to be on the lookout, like the spies in Numbers 13, for fruit in their own lives, families, and neighborhoods–for where they see fruit, they see a glimpse of the Holy Spirit.
We put what we were learning into practice through imaginative play, games, reading and creating books, and talking together. Lots of books were read like, Maybe God is Like That Too, A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds, and Grow Kind.
Maybe the most fun was had was worshiping together! In case you want in on the fun, here are the words and hand motions to “The Fruit of the Spirit” song. We also sang,“Wherever I Go” and “All Creatures”. Right before we left for the day, the kids would get relaxed and comfortable on the rug and we sang together “His Banner over me is Love.” We especially loved the verse about being brought to God’s banqueting table! I’ve been carrying that song close and singing it all week.
Join us in praying over the seeds of faith (and blueberries!) that were planted this week. May we all learn to see and allow God to sow more and more fruits of the Spirit in our lives and hearts. I really believe that the good work that God started in the hearts of the children and volunteers this week will bless our community for many seasons.
