Child-like Faith

Have you ever noticed the faith of a child?

Innocent.

Honest.

Open.

You see, children do not have the baggage that us adults do.  Let’s be honest-we have all been burned by the Church.  All of us.  And if you have ever been in leadership (paid or unpaid) in the Church–you have definitely been burnt.  Some of us have never recovered.  Some have recovered and some are still healing.

I am reminded of child-like faith by our daughter.  She is 2 and is such a joyous and loving person.  She loves to laugh and enjoys being silly.  She likes to learn and enjoys being taught.

Although our daughter is young, my wife and I have found is vital to begin to teach her the basics.  Mackenzie loves the stained glass windows at church and the many crosses and statues of Jesus; however, she knows this much—–Jesus is in her heart.  We have taught her that and she knows this.  While I respect the beauty of our church and many other churches, I want her to know there is more to knowing Jesus than having a pretty church building.

What if we approached our faith—like a child does?  A child does not sway in faith because of denominational ties or pressures from leadership.  A child embraces themselves and their faith…….without worring what others think.

Here’s the irony.  We live in a culture where everyone thinks they are “independent” and can think for themselves.  Yet, when it comes to faith/church/beliefs……people often take the comfortable road.  They don’t question the doctrines that are placed before them.  They don’t engage in conversations about Jesus, etc……..other than in church on Sunday mornings.   Friends, your FAITH is in you.

Your faith is not stuck in your local church building.  Let it out!  Talk about your faith.  If you don’t have like-minded friends, make some.  Befriend people who have views opposite you so you don’t live on the 5th floor of an ivory tower—above everyone else.  And be real in your faith journey.  We all experience joy, heartbreak, illness, hopes, dreams, and setbacks.

Will you have childlike faith—-with arms wide open?