Origen: The Stone That Sharpens Us All
 Origen lived a disciplined life and gave away most of his money. He kept only one coat and no shoes.
NOT A STITCH IN THE HOUSE
In North Africa over 1,800 years ago, young Origen awoke feeling groggy. He pulled his blanket up close and rolled over to go back to sleep. Suddenly, he remembered the events of the night before and jumped out of bed, reaching for his clothes.
However, they were nowhere to be found. Wearing only his nightshirt, Origen rushed to find his mother.
"Mother, has Father returned? And where are my clothes? They're all missing."
His mother replied quietly. "Sit down, Origen. The news about your father is not good. He was arrested last night, and his trial is going on right now. Since everyone who knows your father knows he is a Christian, they will find him guilty and he is sure to face execution."
Origen jumped to his feet. "But Mother, why didn't you wake me? I must join Father. I can't allow him to be martyred alone!" Origen started to rush out of the house, then paused, remembering that he wore only his nightshirt.
"Mother, where are my clothes? I need to join Father as soon as possible."
"Origen, your clothes are not in the house," his mother replied calmly. "I gave them to your uncle. He won't bring them back until it's safe for you to go out."
Origen felt shocked and betrayed by his mother's actions. "Mother, how could you do this to me?" he exclaimed. "I need to join Father right now so we can stand together for our faith. We've both longed to give our lives for Jesus, just as He gave His life for us. How can you stand in my way?"
Tears came to Lydia's eyes as she witnessed her son's bravery. This was harder than she had anticipated.
"Son, I know you love the Savior and want to give everything for Him, but becoming a martyr is not something to be sought. If God asks it of you, then so be it. But what if it is God's plan that you serve Him by living, not by dying?" Lydia's voice cracked as tears flowed down her face.
"Origen, you are a gifted student, and your father has taught you much. You must use your gift to help others understand the faith."
Lydia's words gave Origen much to think about. The Christian faith was misunderstood, and Christians were being persecuted in many parts of the empire. Perhaps God would make a way for him to make a difference.
NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR GOD
Weeks later, Lydia and her children watched as the soldiers carried off the last of their possessions. It almost seemed like more than they could bear.
"I'll find a job, Mother," promised Origen. "I'm the oldest, and it's my duty to take care of you."
 "But what about your studies?" replied Lydia. "You are not yet ready to take a teaching job. Besides, no one will hire the son of a man who's been executed as a traitor of the Roman Empire. We must find another way."
"It does seem impossible, but nothing is impossible for God," said Origen. "We must pray for His plan to be revealed."
Origen believed God would guide his life. He trusted God to place him where he could best defend Christianity against those who wanted to destroy it. And he was right—God did just that. Origen soon found a wealthy person who provided money for him to finish his education. Finally, Origen was a teacher and could help others learn about faith.
Find out what Origen did with his education in Part Two of this "Glimpses for Kids" children's worship bulletin insert.
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