BetsyJo writes, “My daughter’s best friend is being raised in a Muslim family. My daughter is sad because her friend doesn’t believe in Jesus. Any advice on what to do?” Our schools today are multicultural. As more and more people immigrate to the United States, the world is coming to us. The question is, “What are we doing to reach them?” Frankly, it can start with our kids. Who are the best people to reach Tanzanians? Tanzanians, right? Who better to reach kids than kids? But we need to train our kiddos to be salt and light—not pulpit-pounding preachers, but people who love people. Jesus was called a friend of sinners for a reason—He loved them—but told them the truth. Our kids can do the same.
Suggested Reading: Matthew 11:19,, Matthew 22:36-40,, Luke 19:10
Any advice on a kid having a friend who identifies as gay?
I haven’t done any on that specifically, but I think this one could help. https://parentminute.org/my-daughter-just-came-outwhat-do-i-do The important thing to do is not be condemning. Jesus said he didn’t come to earth to condemn the world (John 3;17) but to save the world through Him. We need to point those who are living in sin the love of Jesus. Tell them the stories of how he was accused of being a friend of sinners (we should only be so like that, right?) and he’s come to give us new life in His name. That doesn’t mean we leave out the truth, it means to point it out in love — reminding her we’re in the same boat with our own sins He’s forgiven and helping us to overcome.