Insights

And the streets of the city will be full of boys and girls playing.” Zechariah 8:5

Growing up, I would play outside until the street lights came on. I would ride my fancy yellow bike that had tassels on the handlebars through the neighborhood and cut through the park to go get a blue slurpee from Kmart. I had an awesome childhood. Often I think, how could I have done that at such a young age? I would never let my own children do that at that young of age, but it was a different time and it was a small town. Everyone knew everyone and the community looked out for each other. The streets were safe to play.

When I originally Googled the verse from Zechariah, I ran across a statement that the verse was about how there will be no cars in Heaven. First, I don’t recommend Googling to understand passages from the Bible. Second, the prophet Zechariah was creating a picture of a community that would be safe–safe for children to play in the streets, safe play without fear. The verse  is not about cars in heaven, but the prophet is painting a vision of the future with safety, peace, and play.

This summer as your family makes plans, I hope you include time to play. As parents, we should create a space  where kids feel safe to play.  Children, even big high school students, learn by playing. For our children to play, we often need to protect their time and schedule for them to play. Don't have such a long to-do list that every minute is structured. This summer, build blanket forts, make mudpies, ride bikes, build lego towers, create messy art, giggle, and laugh. Play.

Leah Rabb
Elementary Education Principal
Logos Preparatory Academy