John 20:24-28

24. Now Thomas (also known as Didymus[a]), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” 26. A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27. Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28. Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

Jesus Gives Another Chance (John 20:24-28)

 < Trust Your Children >
 
  The most popular parents are those who give understanding and courage. Once their children think that they give faith and encouragement, the children begin to open their hearts confessing their worries and faults. Then, they will not go astray. When your children worry about their school grades, don’t blame on them. Have a broad mind on their studies and relationships as well.
 
  It is natural for children to fall in love at any time. Don’t perceive it as an unnatural phenomenon. Have a smile and congratulate unless they are in an undesirable relationship. Even if you’re not satisfied with their boy/girlfriends, it’s not a big deal as long as you let them be in an open relationship. Their love might seem insignificant to you but it is the very precious love of theirs. Even if you feel a little bit of anxiety, you should respect and support their love so that they do not hide their relationships. You should also educate them to protect themselves and ask about their boy/girlfriends with composure.
 
  Moreover, let them know that they should prepare themselves to seize a chance of love which you don’t know when would come, and tell them in advance that they might be hurt by love since their feelings are so pure. If you are watchful for their love with a smile, they wouldn’t go wrong. No matter how hard the wind blows, it’s going to be over soon. Similarly, children easily fall into an ardent love but the excitement it gives doesn’t last long. You just need to wait for them with prayer and don’t forcibly preclude their love and friendship. If you do so, a bigger problem will arise.
 
  Trust the judgment of your children. If you have raised your children in the right ways, they would make a right judgment regarding their relationships. Have faith that they are capable of making the right decisions. Tasting of love in youth may be an opportunity for your children to grow mature and have a purpose in life. I had never had feelings of serious love before I met Jesus so I didn’t have a purpose in life. However, ever since I fell deeply in love with God in 1984, my life has become sincere and meaningful.
 
  Don’t worry about your children having the feelings of love at an early age. They learn to submit and understand by building up the tower of love and friendship. Even if they fail in love or friendship, they can learn many lessons through the failure. They will not betray the faith you have given to them. Your hasty judgment which suspects and distrusts your children would make their souls sick, but the word of love and encouragement would make them get over the failure and trouble.
   
  - Excerpt from < Jesus Gives Another Chance >

ⓒ Pastor Lee Hangyu http://www.john316.or.kr