A Solid Foundation

A couple of weeks ago, as we were preparing for bed, my son asked me, "Daddy, what happens when we die?" This is one of those questions that you both hope for and dread at the same time. You hope for it in that your child is showing interest in spiritual things, but dread it in that you wonder how to lead a 5-year-old in a discussion about such weighty topics.

A year ago I would have been woefully unprepared in how to lead my son in answering this question, but we have found a very helpful tool in educating our children in spiritual matters...drumroll please...the children's catechism.

The conversation went something like this
Issac: "Daddy, what happens when we die?"
Me: "We go to heaven or hell."
Isaac: "I want to go to heaven."
Me: "Can anyone go to heaven with this sinful nature?"
Isaac: "No, our hearts must be changed before we can be fit for heaven."
Me: "There are a few things that need to happen before you can go to heaven. First, you have to be regenerated. What is a change of heart called?"
Isaac: "Regeneration."
Me: "Second, you must repent. What is it to repent?"
Isaac: "To be sorry for sin and to hate and forsake it because it is displeasing to God."
Me: "Third, you have to believe in Jesus. What is it to believe or have faith in Christ?"
Isaac: "To trust in Christ alone for salvation."
Me: "So to go to heaven you have to be regenerated, repent, and trust in Christ. Who can change a sinner's heart?"
Isaac: "The Holy Spirit alone."
Me: "How do we get the help of the Holy Spirit?"
Isaac: "God has told us that we must pray to Him for the Holy Spirit."

As you can see, I was able to mix the catechism questions in with our conversation to lead it in a meaningful direction. This tool has helped us to lay a strong foundation for our children. I hope that anyone who has children, especially young chidlren, at home will take this to heart and do something to provide a solid foundation for them.