Knowing God

TODAY: Talk to the children about the life of Mahatma Gandhi, who said: “If we are to teach real peace in this world and if we are to carry on a real war against war, we shall have to begin with children. And if they grow up in their natural innocence, we won’t have to struggle; we won’t have to pass fruitless, idle resolutions, but we shall go from love and peace to peace, until at last all the corners of the world are covered with that peace and love for which, consciously or unconsciously, the whole world is hungering.”

Do you ever wonder . . . Is God really there? Is He really answering my prayers? Well, here’s the answer: Yes. God is always by your side. He’s always listening. Remember, He created you in His image. Jesus died on the cross for you. Why? Because He loves you. He wants you to be happy. And He’s glad to listen, and just be there.

Jesus on Earth, the baby that grew into a miracle-worker, was a man. A real man. He felt pain. He experienced sorrow. He was nailed to a cross! For you. That’s how much He loves you. That’s how much He loves all of us. But what do we do in return? That’s right — we turn away. From Him. Our creator. The one who loves us more than anything else.

This Lenten season, think about it. Your troubles are nothing compared to what Jesus sacrificed for you — and me. Dig deep. Remember the one whose love for you is unconditional. Jesus loves us. Turn to Him. Walk in His light. Follow His path. Go, knowing that He loves you. He’s always there for you, and is always willing to listen.

— Jodi LeBolt, age 11