when you're farther down the road

St John Chrysostom talks to us today in A Year with the Church Fathers about helping out those who are younger in the faith. He says that one of the things we can do that helps younger Christians the most is sharing the things we've struggled with, and sharing how to deal with them.

That's not something everyone likes to talk about. We don't always like pointing out our weaknesses or our areas of vulnerability. It doesn't make us look good. But when we humble ourselves and share what we've struggled with, we help the next generation to learn several important things.

First, they learn that they're not alone in their struggles. They learn that others sin, too. That even people they admire struggle with sins from time to time. That it's to be expected. And that there is a way to deal with it.

They also learn to share THEIR struggles with the next generation, to pass on what you've taught THEM. Not only do they learn the content of your lesson, they learn the importance of the lesson itself.

And they learn that humility is important, because without it, none of the lessons would be possible.

So the next time you're spending time with someone young in their faith, keep St John's lesson in mind. Share your struggles. You'll impact many generations to come.

God, thanks for teaching us through the experiences of others.