An "in the groove" lesson (from my daughter)

Since we wrapped up "In the Groove" today, I thought I'd share a little habit that my daughter Abby has adopted into her life that keeps her growing toward full devotion. Abby is 5. Every time I've shared this with someone, they tell me what a cool idea it is. What I think is amazing is how this simple little habit has taught me as much about spiritual growth as a thousand sermons.

Hanging on Abby's bedpost is a cheap plastic cup. She calls it her "prayer cup." One day Abby took a piece of construction paper and cut it into little strips. On those strips, she wrote the names of those she knows and loves the most. The prayer cup is filled with parents, grandparents, cousins, friends, teachers, dogs and cats. Every night before she goes to sleep, she draws out a name and that's the primary person she prays for that night.

Those who know me well will tell you that prayer and slowing down to talk to God is one area of full devotion that I struggle with most. So every night for months, I've sat at the feet of a 5 year old. I've become her student. And she has taught me about communicating with God. I've heard prayers that were among the most sincere and powerful I've ever heard. I've celebrated prayers as they were answered. (and at times, became a little jealous and wanted to know her secret!!)

Thanks to Abby for teaching her old man that getting in the groove is not that hard. In fact, it can sometimes be as simple as a red plastic cup.