As a child, I knew very little about what it meant to be a Christian. My ideas were based on illustrations in the bedtime storybooks in the doctor’s office. It was a limited view, to say the least. My heart sank for those who didn’t make it on the ark. Why were Adam and Eve sent out of the garden? Abraham took his son to be a sacrifice. Samson pushed down some pillars after his eyes were gouged out. You get the idea.
Many Christians assume children are taught Bible stories and understand the gospel. We didn’t attend church, nor did I learn Bible stories. I had a great childhood, but no church was involved. So, my understanding of what God expected or wanted from me was limited or nonexistent. One of the few times I attended church was a vacation Bible school. Someone taught me John 3:16. Little did they know this was my one and only lifeline to be saved.
I don’t remember her name, but I remember her patience in teaching the verse so I could earn a prize for the evening. Neither of us knew the real prize would be my salvation many years later after marriage and a baby. She spent several minutes repeating it to me as I stumbled through it. Eventually, I said it all the way through without help. Thank you, unknown lady, who taught me the verse that saved my soul.
My emotions run high every time I think of that night. How quickly adults move on and think children will learn it another time. That was my one and only time. Thank God she didn’t give up or get distracted. I’ve been to Sunday school classes where they stopped the Easter lesson with Jesus on the cross. Never leave Him on the cross! The children there may never be back for the rest of the story! Teach Christ risen to them at all costs.
Today, I’ve been saved for over forty-three years. My life was changed as an older teen when I accepted Christ into my life and decided to follow after His will. My first Bible felt like gold in my hands. Every word penetrated my heart. Sometimes with love and sometimes with conviction. Living for God isn’t a perfect life, but knowing that heaven awaits those who trust in Him is worth it. Learning to forgive and love the people around me has been a challenge. To be honest, I’ve always tried to work things out before I pray. It’s one of my most significant faults, but I’m working on it.
If you don’t know him, it’s okay to try to know him now. He welcomes everyone.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.