First Baptist Church of Herndon

Little Ears

Linda Soller | Sep 25, 2023

Driving down the road with two of the four grandchildren I heard myself say, “keep an eye out for deer, our neighborhood is full of them.” Immediately after I wondered if they understood what I meant by “keep an eye out.” But as it sometimes happens our conversation had taken a swift turn and I never explained what I meant. We didn’t see any deer on the drive to my house.

Big sister had been picked up and taken to a birthday party, so I had the unique pleasure of some good one on one time with my only grandson. We played bean bag toss, restaurant, and Lego. In between we filled my big metal can with birdseed, watched a little TV and shared some peanut M&Ms. The whole time we were talking either about what we were doing or kindergarten. It was a good afternoon.

When time came to take him home, we packed up his rolling backpack with all the essential items he brought with him. You never know what you might need! There was a light rain falling so we scurried to the car and hooked him in the booster seat. As I pulled out of the drive a little voice from the back said, “I’ll keep an eye out for any deer. Maybe we will see some this time.” I smiled to myself. He had heard and understood.

My mom used to tell me there is always someone watching. I think that’s true. Children don’t miss much. But now I think I need to remember there is always someone listening. Those little ears will hear and pick up so many lessons. Some will be confusing, others may be hard to accept, and still others will be exciting. Those little ears will be bombarded with facts and a fair amount of fiction. They will hear what they are doing wrong and what they are doing well. They will know where faith fits in their lives by what you say about God, loving others, and going to church. Yep, those little ears are listening. What are you saying?

Be the love in the world  : )   Linda

Dedicated to James – my little buddy who turns five this week!