Family worship time in our house is very important to us. Just about every night, we gather together, sings songs, and read scripture. This varies at times. Some times we do more of one than the other, but nevertheless, it is a consistent time of reflecting on the day and learning God's word. A few nights ago, Naomi shed some new light on an old verse.
The family alter started as usual with prayer and music. Then we read scripture and began having some discussion. During this time we try to ask a lot of questions and contextualize the concept to help them better understand. Sometimes Naomi will think of a hypothetical situation to apply what she just learned. Sometimes, I think her "hypotheticals" are actual events that happened to her throughout her day.
We were teaching the children about the love of God and how we love him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). The discussion began to revolve around loving God and people when people are not so easily lovable. Like usual, Naomi begins to give a "hypothetical situation" about loving people when they are being mean.
She says, "Ya, it's kind of like when Rachel, Savannah, and I are playing outside and Rachel goes into her house and gets her new barbies. And when she comes outside, she gives one to Savannah and does not give one to me. And they begin to play without me. I feel really sad and get mad. So I said to them, 'The bible says: You are my friends if you do whatever I command you...'" (Inferring...give me a barbie.)
At this point I have to look away and fight the outburst of laughter bulging in my throat. I look at Stacy and she is grinning from ear to ear with her head down lightly giggling. Naomi on the other hand was serious. I ask her if this is just pretend or did this really happen. Of course, it did happen earlier that day. I can just imagine the look on those girls faces when she said that. Priceless.
Part of me was impressed. Don't get me wrong, what she said was out of context and misappropriated. However, in the context of the conversation, it was pretty smooth. She spoke with authority and certainty. I can't knock a girl for trying.
Obviously, this lead to a correction conversation. We spoke to her about context and why Jesus said what he said, and how only he can say that. This is not the first time Naomi busted scripture out on someone. One little girl (the little girl who got the barbie) was not being very nice to her and came and took a branch out of her hand impolitely. Naomi returned with, "The bible says your supposed to let your light so shine before men so that they will see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16)." The little girl still took the branch and walked away. Naomi just walked away.
I learned a good lesson from this. Context is very important, especially with children. My children know a lot of scripture, more than I knew at their age. However, not all of it has taken root. I must be diligent to make sure the full counsel of God's word is being taught and that I check for understanding. Then, once understanding is happening, I need to reinforce what they know in proper context. I'm sad to say that I do not check as much as I should. I typically get it in their and let it sit for a while. Naomi does understand some. She showed that in the conversation she had with the little girl who took the branch out of her hand. I thank God for that. It is proof that God is at work in her and is producing fruit in her life.
My wife and I work hard at teaching our kids God's word. It is very time consuming and sometimes, sadly, we just don't feel like doing it. However, the reward is amazing. It is neat to see God using our children for his kingdom. Granted, this time Naomi overstepped a few boundaries, but, that is not to say it was all wrong. She is learning God's word and trying to apply it to her reality. Context will come as she grows. And she will never learn if she does not try. I say... try and fall down. God will pick her up. In time she will learn from her mistakes and figure how to apply God's word appropriately.
This is why it is crucial for Stacy and I to intentionally pray, teach, demonstrate, experience, and explain God everyday and in every way to our children. We are shaping her reality and understanding of God. As she steps out in faith, we need to be in step with her, with God in the front.
The fruit of a family alter time bears fruit beyond our understanding. Naomi and Ethan learned that verse during family alter. They hear stories about kids who speak God's word in public arenas (playgrounds, porches, backyards, school, etc). They take that and go into the world and try to work it out. I would encourage you to find time to pray and worship as a family. It will be a tremendous asset to your family's faith and sense of humor.
it. I hope you take this to heart and know that Stacy, the kids, and I love you dearly. Be good and God bless.