we were very excited a couple of weeks ago because israel "graduated" from the church nursery to his very first sunday school and wee worship class. we were freaked out that our baby is growing, which i assume is a fairly normal response from parents. we weren't really worried about him adapting, for he's always had a personality with adaptability. but, for about a month, we talked it up with him. he caught the vision and began to tell everyone, and i do mean everyone (friends, family, cashiers, total strangers, etc) that he was "going to go to school".
a few friends had asked if he enjoyed it, but that's difficult to measure in a 2 1/2 year old.
but, this week gave me a glimpse of the truth: sunday school works!
early (way too early) in the morning, the two of us were sitting on the couch. i was playing a hand-held game and he was looking at a book. in the book was a picture of a tree. the dialogue begins:
israel: "papa, is that a tree?"
papa: "yes, that sure looks like a tree to me."
israel: "papa, is that a tree?"
papa: "yes, it is a tree."
israel: "papa, did God make that tree?"
papa: (slightly surprised) "why, yes. God did make the trees."
israel: "God made the trees and He made me! thank You, God, for making me."
yes, the tears flowed freely.
and, i'm gaining a better understanding of the child-like faith that Jesus encouraged us all to posses.
i echo the prayer of praise offered by my son: thank You, God, for making him.
