minivan theology

Questions.  Don't we all have them?  My boys are full of questions - some of which really make me think and search for answers.  Often, these questions come from the carseats behind me, as we drive to and from grocery stores, the gym, or other errands.  I call these "minivan theology."   Honestly, sometimes I wish I had just put on some Johnny B music!  At the end of the day, however, I'm thankful for the questions, since they move me to think, and confirm that we're building the culture of honesty and learning in our family.  

This weekend marks the celebration of Easter.  I thought it fitting to offer some of our minivan theology questions here.  I'm not going to share my answers, though maybe I will do that for a future post.  I also know that catechisms, such as found here and here, as well as books like this, are useful for parents faced with these questions.  It's said that Martin Luther wrote his shorter catechism while his son was around 3 years old - perhaps because this age is so prone to great questions!  I will also share that my answers often reflect this belief system.

However, for a moment, join me in listening to my boys' questions.  Take a breath, try to calm the clutter of information that jostles around in your mind, and really hear the heart of the questions.  Perhaps, if you're brave enough, allow yourself to ask along with them.  We have a good father, who loves us and is not afraid or weakened by our questions.  Perhaps these questions, and answers in truth, will enrich your celebration this weekend.

Blessings, 

MamaToo

Minivan Theology 101 - Questions I Hear

1. What is justice?


2. Is justice good?  (a.k.a. Is justice scary?)


3. What is sin?


4. Why do we get to choose to forgive?


5. What is mercy?


6. Why did God make me?


7. Why are Li'l Joe and Cool A our neighbors?


8. Why do people do bad things? 


9. What is compassion?


10. How do I forgive my brother?


11. What is grace?


12. Why didn't God make Larry the Cucumber real?  (a.k.a. Why didn't God make vegetables talk?  a.k.a. Why does God give us imagination?)


13. Why did Jesus die on the cross?

These are only a few - a sampling, if you will - of the questions and conversations enjoyed in our minivan.  Feel free to share your thoughts.  Also, enjoy all of the other wonderful lists of thoughts, questions, photos, and ideas on today's Thursday Thirteen circuit!