That
God Thing
Read: Numbers 6:23-27
Every
once in a while, grandparents get the privilege of participating in
the ritual at bedtime – putting kids to bed. And it is a ritual.
It must be followed exactly, and in the prescribed order.
This
ritual can include:
Medicine
with a drink of juice, sometimes a snack, bath or shower accompanied
by various and sundry creatures (fish, dinosaurs, turtles, boats,
etc.), hair washing and drying (with not too hot a drier), correct
pajamas and socks (in winter), tooth brushing, story time, climbing
in bed with the correct amount and position of soft toys, prayers,
back rub, overhead light off, night light on, closet light on (door
closed), room door open just so far, hugs and kisses, “Good night,
I love you.”
At
the funeral of Dr. James Greer, his son, Rev. James Greer, mentioned
that his father – as part of their nightly ritual – always said
that lovely passage in Numbers 6:24-27. It was a blessing which God
gave to Moses to give to Aaron, saying, “This is the way you shall
bless the children of Israel.” (It is my favorite benediction, and
I especially love to hear it sung.)
“The
Lord bless you and keep you;
The
Lord make His face to shine upon you;
And
be gracious unto you;
The
Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And
give you peace.”
I
began to insert this into the night time ritual after prayers. Our
six year old grandson always asks for it to be repeated.
If
I should forget to say it; he says, “Say that God thing, Nana.”
What a beautiful way to end a day.
Marianne
Kiess
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