The Prayer of a Child

Prayer is a powerful thing that we take for granted. How many times to we pray when we're in a jamb and bargain with God, only to go back on our end as soon as we're in the clear? Remember when you prayed as a child, not to bargain, but simply to say goodnight? If we went back to that simplicity, we could save ourselves undue heartache and maintain healthy relationships. It starts with a conversation, nothing fancy, just "how are you?"

When the kids were small, I would tuck them into bed and we'd say our goodnight prayers, "God bless mommy, God bless Daddy" and so on. I'd tell them a story and they'd fade off into sweet dreams. When my daughter was four, she asked Jesus into her heart at Vacation Bible School and wanted to be baptized. She was very persistent and went to the pastor three times over the course of a year until he finally agreed to do it. A year later, my husband prayed with the boys and they were baptized.

We never know if the prayers of salvation offered by children at such a young age are understood. When they grow into young adults, they may not even remember doing it. As they claim their independence into adulthood and even make unwise, life altering choices, we worry about whether or not they really understand the concept of including God in their lives.

Some people believe that salvation can be lost. I believe in my heart that God remains in control, even with rebellion unto death. I've sat with someone in hospice who had lived a hard life and walked a rough road. He may have been quite a menace in his day, but somehow, laying in that hospital bed unconscious, he looked so frail. In the end, no matter what road we traveled, we all look the same.

Many parents agonize over being powerless to control the choices their adult children make. All we can do is know that we did our best and leave our children in God's hands. I hold on to faith that one day, I will see my children in Heaven. If they had not reconciled at the time of death, I would hope that when God welcomed them He would say, "You may have forgotten me, but I haven't forgotten you." After that, no words would be needed, because they would understand.

Author, Laura Schroeder, has experienced life change first hand. To join an online community of care, visit her website at http://lauramschroeder.com There, you will see the blog, hear podcast stories and see offered available products. To contact Laura, email at laura@lauramschroeder.com.