Dear KidMin Leader,

I write this letter with immense thanksgiving for you. You are the light of Jesus to kids in your community and across the world. You provide a safe, loving, and grace-filled space where children can discover the most incredible gift they will ever receive—the gift of Jesus. Your dedication does not go unnoticed. You are shaping young hearts, planting seeds of faith, and pointing children to their Savior. As you persevere in your calling, there’s something I want you to know and remember.

One of our campus pastors recently preached on the image of God, delivering a message packed with biblical truth. As I listened, my mind raced with thoughts of Bethel Kids, our volunteers, ministry leaders like you, and the weight of what we do. I wanted to jump up and shout, “Did you hear that? We are made in the image of God!” What could be more astounding? More humbling? More challenging? And yet, more amazing!

At the start of this year, like many of you, I began a Bible reading plan. I opened to Genesis 1—words I’ve read countless times. But this time, something stood out. Over and over, I read, “And God created… And God said… And God saw… And God blessed… And God made.” The Almighty God did all of this—He spoke the universe into existence! And then, He made us in His image, setting us apart with divine purpose.

Genesis 1:27 says:

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them."

He could have made us any way He wanted, but He chose to make us like Him. What an honor and privilege it is to reflect our Creator!

I know you already know this truth, but do you remember it daily? Do you let it shape your thoughts—especially on the hard days?

• When 10 volunteers call off on Saturday night, and you feel like you can’t do this another Sunday—you are made in the image of God.

• When Johnny is hiding under the table, refusing to come out—you are made in the image of God.

• When Susie thinks it's fun to smear soap all over the bathroom mirrors—you are made in the image of God.

• When you feel defeated, unseen, unappreciated, and overworked—you are made in the image of God.

Because you are made in His image:

• You show compassion to those in your ministry who need it.

• You extend love to the people you serve, even when it’s hard.

• You are creative in your ministry, just as God was creative in His creation.

• You offer grace, just as God lavishes grace on us, even when we don’t deserve it.

• You carry the light of Christ wherever you go, impacting lives in ways you may never fully see.

And the best part? The kids you serve are made in His image too. Every child who walks into your ministry is precious to God, uniquely designed for His glory. It’s a truth worth holding onto.

As I close this letter, I pray this reminder encourages you. God created you with intention and purpose. He equipped you for the role you are walking in today.

Psalm 139:13-14 says:

"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

Praise God—you are fearfully and wonderfully made. He has a purpose for you. Keep shining the light of Jesus to the children in your church and community. Keep praying for the families around you. Keep asking God to guide you as you do His work for His Kingdom. Your faithfulness matters more than you know.

With gratitude and encouragement,

Melissa

Melissa Anderson has had the joy of serving as the Director of Kids Ministries at Bethel Church in Crown Point for 20 years. She is passionate about ministry leadership, shepherding parents, and loving kids. Melissa has been blessed to be married to her husband, Jeff, for 42 years. Together, they have raised three wonderful children, who are now married and have given them eight adorable grandchildren. Her family and ministry are the heart of her life, and she is grateful for the opportunity to pour into both every day.