In our family devotions, we’ve had times where it feels like we’re in a rut. Times when you can almost feel the burn of the exercise and discipline that it can be. Like the other night, since we alternate nights between Spirit Fire and Night Show, my kids asked which one we were doing. They asked me with that hopeful ‘Dreams come true’ tone, “Is it Night Show night Dad?” That got my wheels turning. I thought about the cartoons we’d watch compared to what our devotions were like. Staring at me while I read from the Bible seemed pretty bland in comparison. It’s all about their attention, what will grab and keep it.
About 15 years ago or so while down in Tennessee, my wife and I visited a toy shop thinking of presents for our nephews and nieces. It was there that I saw a puppet I couldn’t ignore. “Sunny” was its name. It looked biblical and wise and just spoke to me of adventures. I’ve never really been interested in puppets before, but in the years we’ve had Sunny, I’ve witnessed how using one can break all kinds of barriers including cultural and linguistical ones. Years ago I had the opportunity to take it to Hong Kong and entertain the children there. I carried it around in my backpack with its head sticking out and anyone I passed by or sat next to on the train, boat, plane or bus was instantly interested in it.
“Who wants to pray with Sunny, who wants to pray with Sunny, who wants to pray with SUNNY!!!” is the song I sing with it to call the kids to prayer for Spirit Fire.
this is brilliant my friend!
Thanks man.