Faith Like a Child

Jesus said that our faith should be like that of a child (Luke 18:17). Why? Because children are filled with hope, ready to love and trust wholeheartedly in the ones who love them the most. I can read Jesus’ teachings and conceptually understand His point; however, this part of Scripture had little impact on me, until recently.

Two weeks ago, we lost someone very dear to our family. He was someone my children knew and loved – they called him Uncle although he was of no relation. My husband and I admitted our sadness to our children – no sense in hiding it – and prayed that Jesus would welcome Uncle Jerrad. My three year old son offered us joy in hope that we WOULD see him again someday. To my son it was simple. Uncle Jerrad left us to be with Jesus. Faith like a child. And while we are sad our loved one is not with us anymore, my son knows without a doubt that he is Home, waiting for us all. Do we know? Do we really believe? Do we have faith like this child?

One week ago, we had to put our beloved family dog, Tobi, to sleep. It was her time. She was in pain, she was old and she lived a good life. No need to be heroic so we made the decision to send her Home. My five year old daughter was hit the hardest because Tobi slept in her room every night. When I told her, she wept, we cuddled and she disappeared. I found her in her room, on her knees, praying. Faith like a child. After hugs and comfort from her earthly mother, she ran to her Heavenly Father. Are we so quick to fall to our knees? Do we seek the Prince of Peace in the midst of our storm? Do we have faith like this child?

It’s amazing how someone’s death can instantly remind you of all the things you didn’t say, all the things you didn’t do, the ways you could have showed love but refused, the times you should have reached out but were afraid. It’s easy to see the missed opportunity of yesterday using our wisdom from today. Children rarely miss opportunity. Whenever opportunity presents itself, they readily reach for it – especially when it is offered by a parent. They trust without understanding.

It seems only in death can you get a true picture of someone’s life. And only in death can you have a true appreciation for life. God uses death to propel us in the direction He desires for us. He uses it to give us perspective, to remove the scales from our eyes. He uses it to give the cynical, broken, hardened heart faith like a child.


“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” – Luke 18:17