This article is fourth in a series that answers the question "What are we doing?" You can readYes, Jesus Loves Meto understand the big picture.

One simple phrase causes a child to fill with joy: You're Invited!

Maybe to a birthday bash. A pool party. A summer sleepover. Whatever the occasion, kids love an invitation. Why? Two reasons seem most likely. First, kids love feel excited with anticipation for what will happen as part of the celebration. Whatever the reason for the party, kids love to celebrate. In fact, when you open an invitation you can almost hear the revelry begin. Okay, you might not be able to—but a child can in their joy-stoked imagination.

The other reason kids love an invitation is because it's personal. They've been selected. They've been included. Somebody wants them. They've heard about how amazing a party can be, and now the real person planning all this wonderful stuff has said, "This includes you."

Let's press pause on the party for a moment, and bring this ...