Last week I was challenged to take one part of creation and use it as a lens through which to gain understanding about what God is like. Ofcourse, I thought of children and young people!
If children and young people were our only view of God’s character I believe we would see a God full of life and energy. One who’s creative, curious, and always on the move. Children remind us that God is not distant or static, but deeply engaged with life. They also show us a God with a wide emotional range! Children feel joy, disappointment, wonder, and frustration openly, and the bible reflects a God who does the same. Emotions are part of being fully alive.
Children ask endless questions, not because they doubt, but because they trust. They assume they are allowed to ask and that someone is listening. They also live in constant growth and change, reminding us that following God is about transformation, not staying the same.
Jesus calls us to be like little children, to listen to those we trust and to assume our needs will be met. At our national Youth For Christ conference in January, we were reminded that we are called to be sheep, led by the Shepherd. And yet, if I’m honest, I often find myself being more like a donkey, carrying loads I was never meant to carry and walking roads I was never called to travel.
Recently, I’ve been challenged about trusting God with my time, particularly with Sabbath rest. Children don’t earn rest; they need it. Sheep don’t manage rest; they are led into it. Perhaps trusting God means allowing Him to lead us into rest, believing that He will provide even when we stop. Through God’s gentle prodding, He is revealing the subtle idol of self-reliance in my life, and encouraging me that the world will not fall apart if I pause. Instead, He’s been graciously surprising me with His faithful provision.
Thank you to everyone who supported our ‘Soup-er Quiz’ night. We raised over £900!
If you missed our Impact report back in November, have a read by following the link below.