Day 7, Playing It Forward – Pastor Dave
“Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs” (Matthew 19:14, NRSV.)
I received a phone call several years ago from a family I did not know. Roger and Donna Stork were longtime church members, but they moved to Colorado long before I began my tenure at St. Mark. They wanted to give a substantial financial gift to our community of faith, and they wanted some options. After mentioning a few possibilities, I brought up the need for a new playground for the preschool and community. They loved the idea of “playing it forward” and agreed to fund the entire project. Their only request was they didn’t want any plaque with their name on it. It is said the sign of a life well-lived is to plant trees whose shade you will never rest under. I love the sound of preschoolers climbing, sliding, leaping, and laughing on our playground. It’s a spot that is also used by many children in our neighborhood and beyond. This lasting gift is a blessing to so many, and it reinforces the truth that St. Mark loves children. I am so thankful for all those who pay (and play) it forward. It blesses many who we will never meet, and I believe this is the mark of a healthy church.
“Loving God, we celebrate the play of children in our care. May we hear their laughter and know it is pleasing to you. Help us to consider those who will come after us in this life. Amen.”
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