Nicholas is in third grade at school. On this sunny spring morning, he is really looking forward to recess. Nicholas and his friends are just about to go out into the schoolyard when Sven, a seventh-grade student, approaches him. Sven is popular, and many students, especially the younger ones, look up to him. Suddenly, he produces a cigarette and holds it out to Nicholas: “Hey, do you want to try it?”
Nicholas’ heart beats faster. He knows that smoking wouldn’t please his parents nor Jesus. But now Sven is standing in front of him, and everyone is watching. Nicholas prays silently for courage and says: “No, thank you, Sven! I don’t smoke because I’m a Christian. And it’s also unhealthy.” Sven rolls his eyes and grins mockingly: “Coward! The girls certainly don’t go for those.” These words resonate with Nicholas all day: Am I a coward?
When Dad comes home from work in the evening and asks how Nicholas is doing, he tells him what happened. Mr. Werner hugs his son tightly, looks him in the eye, and says: “Nicholas, I’m very glad that God gave you the courage to do the right thing. Smoking, alcohol, and other drugs are not only strictly forbidden at school, but they also make people addicted and ill. It is a sin against your own body and God. Never let anyone tell you otherwise! And as for the girls – don’t worry. Just be friendly and helpful. Focus on school and good friends. You only need one woman in your life, and that’s when you’re grown up and want to start a family. Trust in God, and when the time comes, He will give you the right woman and you will be blessed. Look at Mom and I – we thank God every day that we have each other.”
Nicholas’ heart warmed. How wonderful that he has loving parents, siblings, and good friends! But even when he is alone, he knows: “The good shepherd watches over me, cares for me, and always gives me the best. He helps me to remain courageous and strong in the face of temptation.”
Helene Rotfuss
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