The Tonka, Me and a Boy of Three

I sometimes find myself trying to find that serene tranquil moment so that I can pray. But then I remember I live with 4 boys aged seven, five, three and 19months. And they are just not the serene type. Neither is the husband the most calm and peaceful man. He's more the 'rough and tumble', roar at the kids, play dodgeball at them, act out "The Walls of Jericho" and dance to loud music type!

So I live with that daily challenge of  Urgent vs Important. When the baby goes down for his battery recharge and his much needed oasis from the 3 year old's fun. I wonder what I should do? Should I empty the dishwasher so its ready for the dinner dishes? Should I hoover? Should I play with the 3 year old? Should I bless the husband and actually sort out a cupboard? Should I watch Toy Story again? Should I tidy the toys? Should I put the washing away? Should I pray?

Today I decided to pace the kitchen and pray for twenty minutes. And what a wonderful twenty minutes it was. As I walked up and down the kitchen praying, I was soon followed by a Tonka truck and an ambulance. At first I wished for peace and quiet so that I could press in to God's presence. But with each step I took, I was followed by smaller steps and I realized that it was a special moment. The little boy following me, with Tonka and nee naw in tow, was in God's presence with me, hearing my prayers. And for a few steps he prayed too. Reminding me again to demonstrate to my children, that my relationship with Jesus is real in every moment.

       "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds;

            tie them as symbols on your hands

            and bind them on your foreheads.

       Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home

           and when you walk along the road,

           when you lie down and when you get up."

                                                    Deuteronomy 11v18-19