My Favorite Number

5 year old son: "Mommy? What is your favorite number?"

Mommy: "Hmm. I think it is 9, dear."

Son: "Why Mommy?"

Mommy: "Why do you think?"

Son: "Because Sammy is 9."

Mommy: "No, that is not the reason. What do we have 9 of in our family?"

Son: "Children"

Mommy, thinking carefully: "What number did you want it to be?"

Son: "5 and 2"

Mommy: "Why? Because you and your baby brother are 5 and 2?"

Son, sheepishly, but with a grin: "Yes."

Mommy: "Well, I do love the two of you best, but let's not tell the others ok? Cause they might be sad. Good plan?"

Son nods his head and kisses and hugs Mommy.

Nothing is Impossible with God

The other night I was reading the Bible story about Balaam and his donkey to the 7 and 5 year old children. (Numbers 22-24). I get to the part of the story where Balaam's donkey says, "What have I done to make you beat me these three times?"

Rembrandt's rendering of Balak, Balaam and the Angel of the Lord

No exclamations from either of them that this is remarkable in any way. I read that part to them again, this time with emphasis on the part " and she said to him..." still no response. Then, surprised that they haven't said anything about a donkey talking, I ask them if they have been listening. They both respond that they have indeed been listening. I ask, "Don't you find it amazing that a donkey TALKED, like you or I would?" The five year old responded, "God is all powerful, Mom. He can do ANYTHING."

Faith of a child. It is a beautiful thing. "Of COURSE God can do that, Mom." Would that my faith were so unwavering.