God Made Me for Worship by Jared Kennedy

Author Jared Kennedy uses Isaiah 6 as a model for explaining the liturgy, in God Made Me for Worship

God Made Me for Worship: Helping Children Understand Church by Jared Kennedy, illustrated by Trish Mahony. New Growth Press, 2021, 32 pages

Reading Level: Picture Book, ages 4-8

Recommended for: ages 4-7 as a read-aloud; 6-8 for independent readers

The fourth-graders in Mrs. Jackson’s catechism class have some questions for Pastor Barnabas. “Why are there so many parts to a church service? asks Alice. Henry adds, “And why does it have to be so long?” The Pastor understands how a worship service might be confusing—and long—to a child. He begins by picturing Isaiah in the temple, where the prophet saw none other than the LORD himself. He hears a call to worship from the angels and is stricken by his own unworthiness. But God reassures him that his sins are forgiven through a painful sacrifice, and when the call comes for service, Isaiah is ready: “Send me!”

This is a unique application of the vision of Isaiah 6, but one that fits the call-and-response model of Christian worship. It’s true both in formal and informal settings: We praise, we confess, we hear, we respond. The colorful illustrations show some variety in worship styles, such as (male) pastors in robes or street dress; parishioners lining up for communion or passing the elements. Side tabs help keep little ones engaged by asking questions and suggesting scripture passages. Why and how we worship God is often a neglected subject with young children. This book is an appealing start.

Overall Rating: 4.5

• Worldview/moral value: 5
• Artistic/literary value: 4

Read more about our ratings here.

Also at Redeemed Reader:

• Review: Jared Kennedy’s Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible (starred review) is one of our top pics for preschoolers.
• Reviews: Megan reviews Baby Believer Board Books and other great Christian resources for little ones.
• Reflection: Read Emily’s thoughts on “Ted Tripp’s Worship Principle.”

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