Training

I always thought that boys' general knowledge about tractors and trucks and anything else with a motor and tires came from hearing their dads talking about them. A trucker's son would know how to distinguish a Peterbilt from an International. A farmer's son would know the best kinds of tractors and combines. The construction worker's son understands the function if tellehandelers and lifts. And if course a mechanic's son would have a wealth of knowledge about the inner workings of all of the above. I thought this type of knowledge just kind of "happened" for boys in general. Now though, I realized that I was mistaken. This is not just happenstance, but takes class time, study and practice. Almost every evening before bedtime, I will find Jasper and his daddy sitting in the living room studying the big machines catalog. "Deere?" Jasper asks. "No, that is a Bobcat, do you see the little cat logo?" The next day Jasper sat next to me and studied his lessons while I fed Gracia. "Chase?" He asked. I pondered the yellow skid steer and said "No, that one is a Gahl. Look over here, these are the Chase, I mean Case tractors." As trivial as knowing the color of a New Hollander is, this is the beginning of training our children. Tonight we held the children's hands as they curled up for bed. Allen said "Okay, let's pray." Jasper chimed "No! Me!" so Allen led him in a short and simple prayer of thanksgiving to Jesus. The beauty of the moment put a smile on my face. His baby like repition after each phrase was adorable. Jesus, I'm sure, was thrilled to hear from another one of His creations. Next time you are wondering why you told your child approximately 12 times not to climb on the table, remember that what we are teaching is making a difference. They really are learning, and it is beautiful.