Is Vacation Bible School Really Worth It?
3 Surprising Benefits of Having a VBS
Vacation Bible School (or VBS) is week of kid-focused and enjoyable Bible teaching that takes place in most churches during the summer.
If you grew up attending VBS, then you likely have fond memories of the fun songs you would sing, the Bible lessons you learned, and the sugary snacks you enjoyed. Vacation Bible School is a staple in many churches, and it’s often a highlight on the church calendar each year. While many churches do VBS, each church does their Vacation Bible School in their own unique way. Some churches will hold VBS as a weeklong event, but other churches will pack their VBS into just one day. Regardless of how Vacation Bible School is structured, it usually involves quite a bit of time, money, and willing volunteers. By the end of VBS, most volunteers are exhausted, ready to pack up the seemingly endless amount of decorations, and happily welcome the yearlong respite from hearing the words “Booster, booster!”
Is Vacation Bible School really worth it? Is all the planning, advertising, decorating, hard work, and expense really worthwhile?
As stressful and hectic as Vacation Bible School can be, I am convinced it’s an incredible investment for any congregation. Special things happen during a week of VBS, and I believe this program can provide any congregation with some unique opportunities. Yes, the work is hard, but the payoffs can be great.
Here are three of the surprising benefits of VBS:
First, Vacation Bible School is a time of sharing!
Our Savior came to this earth with a mission “to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). Just before he ascended back into heaven, Jesus passed this mission on to us by challenging us to “proclaim the gospel to the whole creation” (Mark 16:15). Vacation Bible School is a wonderful opportunity for the church to share the Gospel with the community. Most weeks of Vacation Bible School are highly advertised, children are encouraged to bring a friend each day, and many visitors from the surrounding neighborhoods will come. Vacation Bible School gets many people into the church building who would otherwise never be in contact with the local church. VBS is a fantastic time of inviting others, introducing others to the church, and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Second, Vacation Bible School is a time of serving!
Every child of God should be maturing in their knowledge of the Bible and be increasing in their service to God. Each church member has a special role, place, and talent in the Lord’s body, and we are called upon to use those special skills to serve others (cf. Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4). Vacation Bible School gives us a unique opportunity to try new things and be personally involved in God’s work. Classes need teachers, skits and puppet shows need helpers, craft and game stations need volunteers, and rooms throughout the church building need to be decorated. Vacation Bible School inspires us to stretch beyond our normal duties and be engaged in something bigger than ourselves. It also challenges us to work with others, play well with the team, and interact with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Third, Vacation Bible School is a time of showing!
One of the things that makes VBS so special is the fact that it is filled with fun! Yes, God’s word is the central focus of Vacation Bible School, but kids and adults alike get to learn the Scriptures in fun and exciting ways. Sadly, some folks seem to think Christianity is boring, dull, and lifeless. Admittedly, we do sometimes approach Christianity with a humdrum attitude. Vacation Bible School, though, reminds us that learning the Bible and being with God’s people is actually enjoyable! After all, we are taught to “rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). Christians ought to be the happiest people in the world, and we should love nothing more than being with other Christians and growing in our relationship with God. I love Vacation Bible School because it has a simple and beautiful way of reminding us that Christianity isn’t lifeless and boring. It’s a true joy to know God and to make him known to others!
With VBS season upon us, let these words be a helpful reminder to not get lost in all the hustle and bustle. Vacation Bible School is a special time that can bless you, your family, and your local church. Find a way you can be involved in this year’s VBS. Put your heart and all into whatever it is you can do. You might be surprised by how much you learn and grow in the process. Vacation Bible School is worth it!