Darndest Things - Jesus Edition

I'm not sure if its the season or what, but Ryan has been bringing up Jesus in the most spontaneous conversations lately.

We were driving into town, and a big storm was passing.  I saw a bolt of lightning crack across the sky in front of us and out of surprise and awe said "WOW!  I just saw lightning!".  Now, Ryan has always been rather sensitive to loud noises.  I'm not entirely sure if they hurt his ears, or if he just doesn't like the feeling of being surprised...but he REALLY doesn't like loud noises.  When I mentioned the lightning, he became very nervous about the forthcoming thunder and started asking questions with a very concerned tone.  One of his questions (quickly followed by a statement) was "Is it going to do it again?  I don't want it to do that again!"  I told him that I could not answer that as I don't have control over it.  He said "Ohh yeah.... God makes the weather."  I replied that yes, he is the one who gives us whatever weather we need.  Immediately Ryan came back with, "Well,  maybe I could ask Jesus to tell God to stop doing that".
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The boys were at Grammie's house and Papa was home for lunch.  They have a little thing they do that is based on a popular children's book....Grammie says "Do you know how much I love you?"  Ryan answers "To the moon and back".  This particular day, they continued with a few more of these and then Ryan piped up with a big grin.."Hey Papa...I love you to Mars and clear past where Jesus lives!"
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For this one, you need to know who Tanner was.  Tanner was Gage's folks' awesome dog.  Tanner was a big part of this family and blessed us with his presence until earlier this year.  My boys love dogs, and Tanner was a big part of that... especially since they spent a considerable amount of time at their house twice a week while I work.  We all dearly miss him!!

Ryan and I were discussing the Christmas cookies we were going to make (he was VERY excited about making and decorating Christmas cookies this year!).  Ryan asked who all we were going to give some to.  I listed off a few people and Ryan thought for a minute.  His face started to beam with pure joy, then he shared his idea with hope ringing in his words..."Maybe we could give one to Jesus so he can send it to Tanner."
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This last one brought tears to my eyes.  I am continuously in awe of what kids DO remember (we all hear about "oh...they're young...they won't remember that), what the DO know and understand, and of their HUGE capacity to love without strings, without boundaries, and without a complete understanding of the complexities of it.  They just simply love...with complete faith.

May your Christmas preparations slow down enough for you to enjoy the love and faith that is so abundant!

"Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."
Luke 18:17 & Mark 10:15