Theology 101

I've been away from the blog for over a month. And what a month it has been! I have many posts rattling around in my head, begging for an outlet, so hopefully someday soon I'll free my fingers and take back my brain. For now, just a quick snippet about dinnertime tonight.

For the last few months we have been using a great resource, Long Story Short, for family devotions after dinner. Our church generously purchased a copy for each family in our church, and what a gift (!), as it is the perfect fit for our kids. The lessons are short, simple, and Biblically grounded. A testimony to the uniqueness of male leadership, the girls love, love, love to share this special time with Dad way more than they enjoy their teaching times with Mom.

Tonight, Eric opened by asking for a show of hands, "Raise your hand if you have ever in your life disobeyed..." Of course, the hands shot up (even little Esther appropriately thought hand raising was cool and required). The following conversation was about how Satan lied to Eve in the Garden of Eden, convincing her to disobey God and promising that it would have positive consequences. It was good.

Eva's observations afterward were fascinating. Our resident kindergartner hasn't wasted any time getting to the big questions. First she said, "If I saw a snake in a tree, I would probably go a little closer to see it better." Then after some consideration, "But if it TALKED to me, I would stay far away. Because that would be Satan." Then the million dollar question, "Why did God create Satan if He knew Satan would tempt us to sin?"

And though we've hardly just begun, we've already shut the book on Theology 101. Up next week: The total depravity of man, the freedom of the will, and original sin. Buckle your seat belts Mom and Dad, the kids have some questions!

***In the interest of total disclosure and keepin' it real, if you are like me, you might read this post and think, "Great, another family who is doing devotions and having provocative and gratifying dinnertime conversations." Then you might compare yourself to those (imaginary) families and beat yourself up for your (perceived) lack of familial accomplishment. Let's just be straight here and remember that ANY grace, even somewhat regular family devotions, is GOD'S grace. We don't claim any credit, and I know that God's grace is available to all who seek it. Amen. :) ***