Some Things Remain
"From a child you have known the holy scriptures, which are able to make you wise toward salvation through faith which is in Jesus Christ." (II Timothy 3:15)
A woodcutter obtained a very old tree that had been removed from a nearby farm. Before stripping the bark, he noticed, high up on the trunk, curious marks on the bark that resembled the letters J L, along with an unusual design. Curious, the woodcutter cut into the wood and was surprised to find the initials J.L. and a ship anchor clearly carved near the core. Based on the number of rings between the original carving and the outer bark, the woodcutter estimated that the letters were originally carved approximately one hundred ten years earlier.
After making several inquiries, he discovered that a sailor named John Leland had visited the very farm in which the tree was cut all way back in 1853. Little did Mr. Leland realize that his “art work” would still be visible over one hundred years later!
This incident contains a valuable lesson for Christian parents. While our children are young and impressionable, it is vital that we make time to teach them thoroughly about Jesus Christ and the word of God! Although this may not necessarily guarantee that they will give their lives to Jesus or remain faithful Christians, it will make an impact on their lives as they grow up. More often than not, these early "carvings on the soul" will still be visible after they have reached old age.
Our young people need all the help they can get, especially in a world teeming with temptation, immorality, dishonesty and materialism. Never assume that an hour or two in Bible class each week will get them through. Teach them something about Jesus or the Bible each day. It will make a difference… for a long time to come!
Jesus, always Jesus!
Dennis
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