The World's Way vs. God's Way

Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world."  John 18:36  What kingdom and what world was  Jesus referring to?  These are difficult things to figure out in the life of young people.  As the world would have it, the messages young people receive might include "Good guys finish last" or  "Kids have no say" or "Bigger is better".  These things come across as 'truths' that we often succumb to live by.  As part of the youngest of our generations, young people tend to define truth as that which can be verified through experience.  If they don't live it, it's not true. 

Jesus challenges us to a new definition of truth. Truth, as Jesus defines it, is embodied in servanthood-only by giving oneself away can one truly find oneself.  Such a vision can be a challenge for us all to live. But, especially to our young people, who are trying to find their way in a world in which the guiding principle is "Look out for number one."  The truth of which Jesus speaks of is a life lived in service to others, but this truth is often in conflict with the "truths" the world puts forth.

We can nurture our children to share in Jesus' vision of God's Way by helping them identify 'truths' as Jesus defined them, through his actions.  An easy reflection question for children might be, "What did Jesus teach us and what did Jesus do?" Jesus lived by helping others, praying often, caring for the marginalized, sharing with others, being a friend, and through the giving of joyful praise.  This is the vision of God's Kingdom that we can all be inspired and transformed by no matter how young or old. We can live the 'truths' as Jesus defined them, through our actions.