Saturday, October 15, 2011

Something Good!

We recently visited some friends this summer, and as we were sitting down to dinner one night, I overheard this conversation between my children and one of their daughters:

My son: “What’s for dinner?”
Their daughter: “Something good!”
My daughter: “What is it?”
Their daughter: “I don’t know.”

This struck me as a beautiful example of contentment and gratitude. Here was a child’s expression of thankfulness for the food that would be placed before her, before she even knew what it was. Her comments represent security in knowing that her parents faithfully provide for her needs, and she doesn’t even need all of the details to know that what they provide for her will be good.

As the world continues to careen out of control, I notice an increasing level of fear, even among believers. This sweet conversation between children reminded me of the need to have childlike faith. The apostle Paul mentions in Philippians 4:11 that he has learned to be content in whatever circumstances he finds himself. Paul knew who his Father was, and lived in complete reliance on His faithfulness and goodness. Later in that same chapter (v.19), he writes, “And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” We can trust in the faithfulness and goodness of God and live in contentment and security, knowing that He will supply all of our needs.

I recently read an excellent book on heaven, and my thoughts have been occupied with what it will be like. I can easily imagine having a similar exchange when we are seated at the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Fellow believer: “What’s for dinner?”
Me: “Something good!”