FAMILY MATTERS:
'Mommy, why did God let this happen?'
___On Sept. 11, my son asked, "Mommy, why did God let this horrible thing happen today?" What do I say?
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KAY TOWERS
Program Coordinator
LifeWay Fellowship, Killeen
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___Children who are old enough to be aware of the events of the day are asking questions. They are looking for answers, just like everyone else. Any time children ask questions, they deserve answers. Be honest with them. Sometimes our answer is, "I don't know." Share what you do know in language that is age-appropriate.
___Remind your son God gave us the ability to make our own decisions. Talk about choices your son makes. Sometimes we make bad choices. When we love God and learn God's ways, we are able to make better decisions.
___Explain that not everybody loves or believes in God. People who do not know God are not likely to act in a way that pleases God. We live in a world where bad things happen to good people. The actions of those involved in this terrible event caused many people to die or be hurt. It made our nation sad. It made God sad. God did not cause this. Decisions of misguided men resulted in the horrible destruction.
___Remind your son God cares about us. He wants us to love and trust him even when we're going through difficult times. God cares about your son's feelings. Let him know it is all right to tell God how he feels. God understands when we are sad. Encourage him to express his feelings. Talk about his concerns, pray with him, and have him write or draw about his thoughts.
___Tell him that while we can't change what happened, we do have a choice as to how we respond. List the positive things good people are doing to help in this crisis. They are dropping off needed supplies, money and non-perishable food. Some are donating blood. All of us can pray for the families who are grieving and for the policemen, firemen and medical people who are helping. This is a time when we need to pray for President Bush, Congress and other world leaders. The events of that Tuesday are causing many people to turn to God. Think of some positive things your family can do together.
___Remember, your son is watching your response to these events. He hears your comments and senses your fears. This is an opportunity for him to observe your faith and trust in God. This is a teachable moment, even though it is a difficult time for our nation.
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