Tonight, I took the kiddos out for a special treat: Chinese food. We met Grandma at the restaurant and enjoyed a nice evening. #1 even ate frog legs for dinner. On the ride home, #2 asked for me to turn on the radio. For some people, radio music is a constant in the car. For me, I can only stand people talking constantly for so long. But I obliged and turned on the Family Life Network. Soon the car was filled with praise music. Not only that, but they were songs we were all familiar with.

#2’s favorite song came on: Mighty to Save. It’s not an upbeat, boppy kind of song most kids like, but for some reason this contemplative power ballad touches my daughter’s heart. Then I noticed something.

The first was The Bug, buckled snuggly in her car seat, trying to sing to the song. The artist sang, “Everyone needs compassion,” and Bug would sing “Asion” “A love that’s never failing.” “Ailing” “Let mercy fall on me.” “ON MEEEEE!!”

The sound made me glance in the rear view where I noticed something else. #1, in the far back seat was singing in a way I’ve never seen him sing. His eyes were scrunched in concentration. He was swaying to the beat, his head bopping with the rhythm. He was lost in the music. More than that, he was worshipping. There was nothing between him and God. His heart was evident to me in that single glance.

Instantly, I prayed that God would grow his heart of worship. That there would be no desire greater than his love and need for God.

Then I looked at #2. Her eyes were closed, and she was singing. With no one watching, she was spending time with God. It was amazing to be a part of that moment. All three of my kids were loving God with all their hearts.

Before I knew it, tears were streaming down my face, and I thanked God for the privilege of being present in a moment of true worship.

I think many times we as adults bring our junk with us when we worship. There’s always something impeding us from a true, innocent connection with our heavenly father. Not so with the young ones. I think this is why Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” When they choose to spend time with God, it’s just them and God.

Maybe I’ll try that next time.