Journey to Jerusalem FROM THE MOUTHS OF BABES March 14, 2006

I was buzzing about my house, clad in my sweats and an old t-shirt acquired by making a blood donation.   My kindergarten-aged granddaughter asked what my t-shirt said and I told her to sound it out.   I could her see lips moving and quickly she pronounced "give blood," looking at me to be certain she was correct.   When I confirmed her response, she replied, "Oh, grandma, that's cool!   That's just what Jesus did.   He gave blood.   He gave his blood for us when he died on the cross."

Well, what is the phrase…"from the mouths of babes?"   First of all, I had not expected such a response to the verbiage on a t-shirt.   And, I certainly had not expected the exhibition of faith that was wound up in her few, matter-of-fact words, "that's just what Jesus did...he gave blood."

In the Gospel of Mark, we read the story of Jesus and some of the disciples "crossing to the other side" in the boat.   Jesus, tired from a long day of teaching, falls asleep.   When the storm rages, the disciples become very fearful and they awaken Jesus, asking is he not concerned that they are perishing.   He quickly quiets the storm and then asks them if they have no faith.

I think we are often much like the disciples.   We proudly profess our faith...that is, until the storms of life begin to rage and then we are much like the disciples...fearful and nervous and uncertain.   Like the disciples, we have some faith because we eventually get around to asking Jesus to help solve our problems.   But, oh to be like my granddaughter with that simple, all encompassing child-like faith...to "accept the kingdom of God like a child" (Mark 10:15)   We CAN give up fear and uncertainty because of what Jesus did..."he gave blood.   He gave his blood for us when he died on the cross.

Dear God, help us come to you, as adults with a child-like faith.   Amen

Ann Dillon
First Christian Church
Nash

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