Ever since I introduced our granddaughter to the world of “reading in the dark,” she’s been hooked! Grandpa bought a little book light so at bed time we can clip it to our favorite story, snuggle down in the dark and read. This past Saturday—on the eve of Easter, I had the privilege of reading the story of Jesus with Jacie. We read about his prayer in the garden, how he stood before the Sanhedrin and watched him make his way to the cross. Jacie studied the kid-targeted illustrations--then inquired about owies and blood covering the body of our Lord. We began to introduce Jacie to our heavenly Father from the moment she was born so it is within her realm of “normal” for us to read a story about his love or rehearse the invitation for “children to come.” This particular moment was unplanned but a true privilege to share this story with her. Even though it was not the first time to hear the story—she was hearing it for the first time at this age and stage.  Sometimes she attends a Sunday school class and sometimes—an early childhood worship service. Jesus is no stranger to her.

We closed the book, turned off the light and said our prayers. Jacie was ready for nigh night.

Tuesday night, two days after Easter our Grandbabies came to visit. As Jacie was distributing “goodbye hugs and kisses” she fixed her eyes on a logo sewn onto my shirt. Our conversation went something like this.

Jacie: “Grandma, that’s a cross on your shirt!”

Grandma: “Yes, Jacie, that is a cross.”

Jacie: “Jesus died on the cross.” Then with a big ole grin she said, “But he didn’t stay dead.” 

Grandma: “You’re right Jacie-- and where is Jesus now?

Jacie: again, with a grin, “He’s in Heaven.”

I love that!! This young learner is beginning to articulate her theology and I get the sacred honor of listening in and watching an amazing development. I am so humbled and frankly—I’m checked.

I never ever want to underestimate the thinking and learning that takes place in the mind of a child. Specifically, today I am reminded that I never ever want to doubt or forget the pliable mind represented in Jacie, Rylan and every grandchild I will have the privilege to love. I am humbled as I think about the young worshippers who walk through the doors of early childhood learning areas that I have been given oversight, every week. I am reminded that I want to make every moment count. I am also reminded that our most insightful and sincere theologians who have purposed themselves as students regarding the developing mind of a child—the ones who really believe that children are whole persons in Christ, should be the ones who are invited to come along side children on the journey.

I am thankful for the reminder and the privilege.