Dear CrossTown Parents,

Why are we still reciting memory verses in CrossTown and why this challenge? With smart phones filled with easy access to Bible dictionaries and quick reference searching, Bible memory can seem as old fashioned, but the reality is that it’s more important than ever. Here are a few more reasons why we should have our kids, and ourselves too, hide God’s Word in our hearts.

1. Deep roots. For a tree to flourish and grow it needs to have deep roots to stay strong when storms come. This is true for our spiritual growth as well. By memorizing Scripture, God’s words are planted in our memory and grow deep and strong. They become a natural part of our thinking and responding.

2. Future battles. We don’t know what the future holds or what battles or struggles our children will one day face. What we do know is that in this world there will be trouble, but having Scripture hidden in our kids’ hearts can help them face whatever life throws at them.

3. More like Jesus. Not only does memorizing Scripture allow us to act more like Christ in the face of temptation, it also allows us to hear His voice and His words as we go through each day. When asked what the greatest commandment is, Jesus said, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind’” (Matthew 22:37). If we want our kids to be fully immersed in loving God, they need His words in their hearts and coursing through their thoughts.

4. Others. Jesus went on to say, “A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:39). When Christ’s words are our words, they help us to better relate to others and to put others above ourselves. They remind us of Christ’s sacrifice for us and how we, too, should put others above ourselves.

5. Bonus: Peace of Mind . As parents we will never be able to keep our children from being hurt or facing difficult circumstances, but if we have helped them to hide God’s Word in their hearts we can have peace of mind that they are facing life with the best protection. God is with them every step of the way.
(Source)

So to make this a real official challenge we ask that you first respond to the following terms and conditions! By filling in this form you:

1.Accept the challenge to memorize the 9 Bible Verses and the extra verses (for children between Grade 1 and Grade 5).

2. Commit to either let your child recite in church or making a video of reciting all the Bible Verses.

3. Understand that there is prize for each child who recites all the Bible Verses and understand that this prize consists in going on a field trip and getting a medal.

4. Understand you are following God's commandment by "impressing them on your children".

If all the answers are 'YES', please fill in the form :)!