I'm laying next to Raffi in bed and he's asking about money and why we use it. I attempt to explain my (weak) understanding of human history as it relates to money. The lesson is followed by this exchange.
Raffi: I don't think people should have to pay for houses, food, and clothes. Because if one person doesn't have money, then their kids won't have money, then their grandkids won't have money. And it won't be fair for all of them.Me: Yes, Raffi. It is very unfair.
Raffi: Can you protest that?
I fumbled through an explanation of possible policy changes that could make sense for an 8 year old.
Raffi: If you can't change that law, can you at least put water fountains every where so everyone can have water to drink?
Ask Raffi if it was fair for Jeus, the Christ, a perfect man, sinless, without any blemish, to die for the many who are not perfect and who have many blemishes. If fairness were the issue thn Jesus would not have died for the world of trespass. So then, what is the issue? Jesus, Himself, tells us. It is love, to love God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself.
ReplyDeleteIn that context, how is "neighbor" defined?
ReplyDeleteAre you not familiar with the commandment? I think it obvious, that is, everybody. The more important question is the meaning of the word, love. Remember the declaration, god so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son... Love, biblically, is understood in the spirit, and whe we manifest the fruits of the spirit, we are loving, biblically. Love in the Bible has a broad and deep, and much layered substance. It included the macro and micro application, the implication of our actions objectively, and subjectively. It is not the prissy, PC expression iterated in the broader culture. It is exhibited in the bible many times over, and in so many different ways. To have a proper under standing, read the bible, and live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. One can do that only if one is walking in the spirit, forsaking the lust of the flesh, pursuing god diligently, and the reward that comes thereby, which, standing in the presence of god, and thereby blessed wit the ears to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit, and the will to live by them, minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day. your name, 'belonging to god' calls you to do precisely that, dear nephew.
DeleteIs this sermon really meant for an 8 year old? God help him!
DeleteOf course it is, and for adults, as well. Try it you'll like it.
DeleteMarashgirlblogspot, that was written in response to Deron's interrogative.
DeleteThere is something more that you can share with Raffi. It is the story of Jesus speaking with the Samaritan woman at the well. He tells her of the water that can be freely drawn, freely, mind you, that will take away one's thirst. It is free. All one has to do is draw it from the well, that provides living water, and available to all. In fact you can read it to him, and then Raffi can read it to you. It is in the Gospel of John, chapter 4, verse 4-26. Raffi has good instincts. Now, let us point him the way.
ReplyDeleteWater fountains? An interesting point, Raffi! Years ago, there were water fountains in every park, functioning water fountains with cool, clean water. Today it is rare to see an outdoor water fountain anywhere!
ReplyDeleteIs that the case in Newton, that the fountains have vanished? Too busy building $200 million dollar high schools, perhaps.
DeleteI truly do hope god will help/bless Raffi in all areas of his life. I am glad you brought it up.
ReplyDeleteMarash Girl -- Raffi is so RIGHT!
ReplyDeleteRight about what?
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