Teaching our Children the Value of Acts of Service

As parents, we hold a precious responsibility to guide our children not just in words but in deeds. Teaching them the value of serving others is one of the most profound lessons we can pass on. This week, I’m working with my two children, Isaiah (8) and Nora (6), to embrace a practice of intentional kindness toward our elderly neighbors. We’ve decided to take a simple yet meaningful step: they will knock on our neighbors' doors and offer to take their trash to the curb without expecting anything in return.

This practice isn’t just a chore or a good deed. It’s an act of Kairos. In the Kairos Way, we emphasize the importance of living intentionally, seizing moments that align with the will of our Heavenly Father, and acting on them with love and urgency. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Through acts of service, we teach our children to use their freedom to love, not only with words but with action.

Isaiah and Nora are learning that kindness doesn’t need a reward or recognition—it’s about reflecting God’s heart and showing others they matter. Knocking on a neighbor’s door, offering help, and expecting nothing in return teaches them humility, selflessness, and the value of serving those who might need it most. Some of our neighbors may struggle with mobility or loneliness. A simple act like taking their trash to the curb can communicate care, respect, and love in ways that words cannot.

This practice also connects to the urgency of Kairos living. We don’t know how many opportunities we have to impact someone’s life. The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:15-16, “So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.” By teaching my children to be proactive, I’m instilling in them the importance of not delaying when there’s a chance to show kindness. Each moment holds the potential to glorify God and bring joy to someone else.

This practice has already sparked excitement in Isaiah and Nora. They see it as an adventure, a way to connect with our neighbors and bring smiles to their faces. I’ve shared with them how Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Their actions, no matter how small, can shine brightly and point others to God’s love.

For families looking to instill similar values, the beauty of this practice is its simplicity. You don’t need a grand plan or an elaborate project. A knock on the door and a kind offer are enough to plant seeds of compassion and faith in your children’s hearts. Along the way, we can remind them that these actions mirror Jesus’ example of serving others, as He washed the feet of His disciples and healed the sick without asking for anything in return.

As we embrace these small, intentional steps, we are modeling a life that makes the most of Kairos opportunities. My prayer is that Isaiah and Nora grow to see these moments as part of their daily walk with Christ, understanding that every act of kindness, no matter how small, carries eternal significance.

A Prayer for Kairos Acts of Service
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of time and the opportunities You give us to serve others. Help us to teach our children the value of kindness and compassion. Give us eyes to see the needs around us and hearts willing to act with urgency and love. May every act of service reflect Your grace and bring glory to Your name. We ask for courage and humility as we step forward to bless others, trusting that You will work through our actions for Your purposes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.