Some Thoughts

Since Hallie was born, we have been saying a "bedtime prayer" with her. Now, it has really been Jonathan praying specifically for her and thanking God for the blessing she is in our life. He always prayed aloud, and Hallie sometimes listened and sometimes talked straight through his prayers. About a month ago, Jonathan begin saying his "out loud prayer" a little more Hallie-friendly. It was very simple, very child-like...it made my heart smile. He would begin simply, "Dear God, thank you for Mommy, Daddy, and Hallie..." and would then name the grandparents, family, and pray for a good night's sleep. A couple of weeks ago, he did the usual. after Jonathan thanked God for "Mommy, Daddy, and Hallie", Hallie said, "and Gramps and Rah-Rah, and Nonna and Pop, and Uncle J and Grandmom". Then a few nights ago, Jonathan would ask Hallie "who else" and she said, "um...and people, and my cousin Abby, and God." Her heart is being molded...and mine is melting in the process. She is SO precious and we have such a huge responsibility in growing her up to love God. Oh my word. She is so precious...and even more so when that sweet voice starts singing "Jesus Loves Me".

That brings me to my next thought...hiding God's Word in our hearts.

I have been thinking a lot lately about teaching Hallie Bible verses. She is definitely in the stage of repeating everything we say--with inflection. :o) I really began thinking about it the other night when she recited Llama Llama Mad at Mama in its entirety (no, I am not kidding). I thought if Hallie can completely memorize a 20+ page children's book, then surely she can memorize Scripture. Jonathan and I agreed that it was time to begin teaching her these Truths.

I know this probably sounds silly b/c Scripture is Scripture...but when/how did you begin teaching your children Bible verses? Did you shorten the verses to be more "kid friendly"? Our church puts a "Fighter Verse" in the bulletin each week, so we can go from there. I was just curious as to what you mommies/daddies who have gone before us have done with your children. I found a couple of websites that give toddler verses (shortened verses); but I need a plan...I know that sounds ridiculous, but I'm just being honest. :o) I'm very excited about this, and I think Hallie will be excited about it, too.

So...how/when did you begin teaching your child/children Scripture?