What a four-year-old told me
In our weekly series, David Swain on Leamington Baptist Church considers the importance of birthdays.
We all at some time in the year celebrate a birthday, I am no exception! As each year goes by, I am becoming more aware that I seem to know less than I did a year ago.
Having recently been told by my four-year-old grandson that he knows everything, I suppose in his short life, and within his lifespan, it is quite possible he is right to hold that conviction, as it might be quite true.
As I get older, I am realising that my life experiences are such a small part of the overall knowledge that we collectively acquire, that when faced with some close questioning, I really have to think hard, and realise that I do not know all of life's answers.
The reverse of doubt and lack of knowledge is to have the experience of certainty. One example that comes to mind is the time Jesus questioned the disciple Peter: "Who do you say I am?" Peter was able to answer with complete certainty: "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God".
Jesus in his time on earth, was able to give the gift of certainty to many, through his teaching and example. This made people sit up and take notice. There are many examples in his life for us to learn from. We could go on finding examples of complete certainty all through the Bible; however I am sure there are many more examples in the here and now too.
Wouldn't it be wonderful to think we could be as certain as my four-year-old grandson, with his complete knowledge of life, when it comes to being as sure of our faith in Christ. There is so much evidence for us to see to prove our capacity, if only we take time to look for it.
I believe we can learn from four-year-olds, about the importance of having confidence in our own faith and beliefs. Maybe now I am a year older, I should learn a little from even the very young.
The full article contains 365 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
24 July 2007 9:48 AM
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Source:
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Location:
Leamington Spa