When I was in the third grade, each week, we would bring something special to school that we wanted to share with our class. It was usually on a Friday afternoon when Mrs. Steichen would say, “Alright, boys and girls, it’s time for show and tell.” Granted, it was early elementary, so our presentations were not earthshaking, but it was fun to bring a cool gadget and “ooh” and “ahh” over the things that were shared. In our class, Rick always had the most fascinating and awesome items to display. Show and tell…you know, that’s not just a game for children.

The Bible teaches us that we are to tell our children about the essentials of the faith and demonstrate how Jesus has transformed our lives. When we teach our children, and they see how our relationship with Jesus relates to everyday actions and decisions, they will, in turn, teach their children. Effective guidance today allows us to instruct “even the children yet to be born.” Here’s how the psalmist explains it. 

Psalm 78:5-8 (NIV)
He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their ancestors—a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him.

Now, here’s the tricky part of “show and tell” parenting. What we say will be confirmed or denied by what we do. Words carry meaning when they are backed up by action. Our children are watching to see if what we believe is confirmed by what we do. So, are our words just lip service or fruitful life service? It’s as basic as show and tell.

Lord Jesus, please help us teach our children well. Help us to not nullify our words by our actions. Help us demonstrate what it looks like to follow hard after you all the days of our lives. In your name. Amen.