Devotions by Barb -- August 10, 2026

In this space, I am sharing devotions written by our dear Barbara Meade.

Barbara grew up a Quaker and is a regular attendee at Spiceland Friends Church. Her faith and Quaker roots go deep as her uncle was a Quaker pastor, evangelist, and artist. Barb's writings about her many life experiences reveal her faith in Christ and highlight the memories of a great family, her years in the banking industry, and her time as a local small business owner. Barb's desire is to serve those around her through her encouraging devotionals and writings from her life. Barb has recognized that our relationship with Christ grows throughout our lives, both in good times and through life's challenges.

HOW DO YOUR CHILDREN SEE THE WORLD

Children are little sponges; they never miss a thing. It amazes me how much they learn and so quickly.

My childhood and my children's childhood seem less complicated. Remember lying in the grass looking at the clouds, imagining their shapes looking like bunny rabbits and all kinds of things. Climbing trees, making mud pies, watching a bug do something amazing. Our imagination was not only amazing then but taught us to create more amazing things as adults.

So many children see the world through their screens, computers, and phones. Sometimes less is better. Joy and magic are seeing through the eyes of a child.

Matthew 18:3 Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted and become as a little child ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven.

As adults, we make things too complicated. Children see things in loving, caring, and simple ways. Maybe we could learn from them.

Amen

Eric is our associate pastor, working with outreach and youth ministry as well as adult discipleship and growth. Eric retired from a 28-year career in public education as a high school band director in 2019 and is now living his lifelong dream as a pastor. Eric and his wife, Diana, continue to live in Henry County where they have been lifetime residents. They "raised" three children and are now making their best attempt at "raising" themselves.