I Finally Understand Child-like Faith

Being a mom of two very energetic and expressive little ones has opened my eyes, heart, and soul in more than a few ways. I have definitely come to understand why little children are so precious to Jesus. And why He is very clear that the rest of us do not hinder them from seeking Him or embitter them and rob them of their curiosity and creativity. Yet, something happens to almost all of us between childhood and adulthood that does just that.

Very few adults have true child-like faith. For the most part, we seek knowledge, facts, evidence, control, and even then, still aren't quite sure we totally trust our sources or our own selves for that matter. Where does the magic and awe go? Why are we so intent on proving everything? What joy or meaning has that ever brought anyone? What do I want to be when I grow up? I want to be more like my kids!

We were in the car the other day, and like most of our car rides, something random or silly gets asked. This time it was, "Are there dinosaurs in heaven?" I played along and said, "I mean there might be... The Bible says other animals will be in heaven." That led to more questions of course. "Will they be nice in heaven? Will they try to eat us? Can we pet them?" Typical kid curiosities (typical for my kids at least). I told them I would imagine that it will be like it was in the Garden of Eden, when animals and people were friends and didn't eat each other.

Now we are getting really excited in the back seat! My daughter asked if she could ride a cheetah. My son says he wants to ride a shark. My daughter said she wants a whole lot of baby snow leopards and axolotls as pets. My son follows with, "I want Jesus to give me a piggyback ride!!!" And we all start laughing with so much joy. Because you know what? I want Jesus to give me a piggyback ride too! Why not?! THAT'S the kind of faith I believe He wants from all of us.

Of course, the conversation kept going, and both of my kids decided they wanted to go to heaven right then and there. They had no more use for this earth. And then my grown-up thoughts came rushing back. We are in the car on the interstate, so that can be a little unsettling when you're driving. Still though, they are the wise and faithful ones. They just KNOW that something better is waiting for them. And they KNOW that God and Jesus love them. These little ones are ready to trade in their earthly bodies with booboos, mosquito bites, sad days and angry days (both with tears), and saddle up any creature in heaven willing to take them on an adventure. Because they understand that even the best day on earth is nothing compared to the heavenly home they are destined for. They know that in this world, magic is a trick, and many things are make believe, but heaven is the real deal. Amen!