In this episode, Jim engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Debbie Harrell, a seasoned expert on child development and education, to explore the intricate dynamics of parenting and children’s ministry. Debbie sheds light on the challenges we face as imperfect caregivers and the unique experiences of children, including third-culture kids. Their discussion encourages us all to see children's ministry not merely as childcare but as a profound kingdom-building opportunity that actively nurtures and shapes the identities of the next generation.

In this episode, they discuss… 

• How childcare teaches us about who we are [0:23]
• Strategies for reaching a child's heart and trusting God's transformative power [12:07]
• Teaching children about actions and consequences without shame [22:56]
• Insight into what it means to be a Third-Culture Kid [31:54]
• Practical tools for helping kids process their unique experiences [33:15]
• The impact of “The Great Aunt Rosie Effect” for shaping a child’s faith journey [38:48]
• Why God calls us to participate in children’s ministry [51:34]

Thank you for listening! If you found this conversation encouraging or helpful, please share this episode with your friends and loved ones. Or please leave us a review—it really helps!

Referenced in this episode:

• Debbie Harrell co-authored What’s Up: Discovering the Gospel, Jesus, and Who You Really Are and The Gospel-Centered Parent
• The Chronicles of Narnia: The Final Battle, by C.S. Lewis
• Serge Free Webinar: Parenting with Hope in a Broken World by Debbie Harrell
• Sonship Week: October 22-27 in Hollywood, FL
• Biblical references: Matthew 19:14

Credits: 

Our guest for this episode was Debbie Harrell, author, speaker, and the TCK Resource Team Leader at Serge. This episode was hosted by Jim Lovelady. Production by Anna Madsen, Aaron Gray, and Sunny Chi. Music by Tommy L. 

𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝑷𝒐𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒕 is produced by SERGE, an international missions agency that sends and cares for missionaries and develops gospel-centered programs and resources for ongoing spiritual renewal. Learn more and get involved at serge.org.

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