What We Might Say to Our Children

Yesterday morning, I gathered my wife and children to hear from God. We opened to 1 Peter 4:12, and I read: 

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. …

I told them all of this is a trial, and we are tempted to be surprised. But, what does God say in verse 13? 

But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

I asked my children if they were insulted on Sunday, and they said “Yes” — remembering too well the slurs hurled in our sanctuary, name-calling I will not repeat, especially not in print. But then I asked them if the Spirit of God rested upon us, and if that wonder alone is the blessing that helps us reinterpret the insults. They recalled, in an instant, our church’s response, the hugs and tears and palpable unity. Our love for one another truly shone through.

“If anyone suffers as a Christian,” the apostle Peter continues — not a murderer, thief, evildoer, or meddler, but a Christian — “let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name” (verse 16). “This is for God’s glory,” I told them, “in the way of Jesus.” 

And then I took a small toy from the floor beside me. I held it up and asked, “What does it mean if I entrust this to Mom?” An older sibling spoke up, “It means to let her hold it.” My wife then stuck out her hand, and as I placed the toy in her palm, she closed her fingers into a grip. Firm. Secure.   

Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

“God has our souls like that,” I said. He holds us while we keep doing good.

Jesus has given us a mission, and it is for the everlasting good of these Twin Cities. His word is the lamp to our feet and the light for our path, and anchored in its truth, I want to encourage you the same way I did them, for all of us and our children:

Rejoice in the trial. See God’s blessing. Keep doing good.

Amen.