By Karen Galarpe
When times are uncertain, such as what has happened since last year when the COVID-19 pandemic hit us, it is understandable to be nervous, afraid and pessimistic. After all, everyone is affected, and every business, every company, every school and government is faced with a challenge we haven't met before--the coronavirus.
Children are no exception. And while they may not voice it out much, they have their worries and concerns too.
My five-year-old grandniece, for instance, frets that she could not go out to visit us or her favorite mall where her favorite toy store is located.
Other kids lament that they could not see their classmates, and it's been harder on those whose schools had to close.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11 which goes: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
I take comfort in the fact that no matter how bleak or difficult my circumstances can be, God sees everything and is there with my best interest at heart; He is my hope and my future.
Wouldn't it be good to spread such message of hope to others, even to kids? Church Strengthening Ministry recently published "Hope Bearer: Lessons of Hope and Courage in Times of Crisis and Change" with this same motivation.
The book is actually a compilation of modules or lessons one can teach kids aged 4 to 12 in Sunday school or at home, online or in person.
It serves as an easy-to-follow guide for parents and teachers and even aunts and uncles to teach Bible lessons which can impart hope to children especially during these times of uncertainty.
Each lesson has an activity which may be an art project, as well as a Bible passage and memory verse, and discussion questions to guide the child in applying what he or she has learned.
My fave Bible verse (Jeremiah 29:11) is discussed in the book's Lesson 2 (God wants to give us hope and a future). Using the Bible story of Moses' birth and how he ended up being raised as the son of Pharaoh's daughter, the lesson brings home the message that no matter what, God looks out for His children. The art project called for is a pyramid to be made using paper, crayons or paint -- so easy and apt for the lesson.
May we be hope bearers ourselves and inspire others around us, even children, of the hope they have in God.
VERSE OF THE WEEK: Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
