The subtitle of this book is ‘Having the heart of God for the Church’s Children’. The author is a theologian, author and educator who ministers extensively in the United States and Canada. She has a prophetic quality to her writing that is linked together with a scholarly biblical accuracy. The title suggests the thrust of the book. No, it is not a lost cause, to bring children up in a godly way but it requires not only the commitment of parents but also of the community of the church working together under the instruction of Christ in order to see children growing up who are not conformed to the patterns of this world. She states clearly her belief that world is fashioned by various principalities and powers, they hold sway over the western world in particular ways and the church is in great peril of embracing those ways instead of holding fast to the things set forth in the scriptures and affirmed through the centuries by the church. The book presents a challenge to the contemporary church, to help its children face the world armed with right attitudes, ready to be ‘different’ and to live in the midst of the hostility of many of their peers who are simply conforming to the codes now present in society. There is a positive note throughout this book, but it is not a ‘how to’ book. Rather, it grounds us back into the heart of God, His love and His ways. Anyone working with children will benefit from this book as will parents and leaders of all children’s and young peoples work. What I like about her approach is its wholeness and its clarity. She does not spare as she approaches various aspects of caring for today’s children. She knows it is a fight, a struggle, the principalities and powers and strong and all pervasive, and yet the Lord is ever near to instruct and equip and empower those who are prepared to be different and glorify Him and not give their children up to the powers in the world. She shows this is not a work done in a day, it requires perseverance and deep conviction and courage both on the part of the parents and the churches. United action is essential, not double standards, confusion between parents within the community of faith and the church. Too often there are profound misunderstandings between parental expectations and those of the churches, opinions vary, confusion ensues, this book will help to provide a good basis of thought leading to action among those who will receive its message. It is a challenging read, but an encouraging one and magnifies the possibility of Christian families living in the community of faith providing the world with a clear sight of Jesus and His ways.
