Listening and Washing Your Hands

The life of a boy who is four years old can be filled with adventure and joy. Our grandson Rowan attends 4K class now and that is a big deal for someone his age. The half day of school is filled with learning activities, playing outside, giggling with friends, and creating new memories every day. Conversations with Rowan often bring laughter. There are times when I have to hold in the giggles because what he is telling me is hilarious..

Recently, Rowan shared that his teacher said he could talk when the class goes outside. I wondered if that meant he was talking when he was supposed to be listening. With all the new and exciting wonders and things to explore at school, I can see where being quiet could be difficult at any age. This sweet boy shared how he and his friends like to talk. I imagine the chats were about toy trucks, superheroes, siblings, and body noises. Typical topics for boys his age. Luckily, at Mimi’s house, we talk all the time. We have wonderful conversations and many of those talks lead to laughter.

One of the first things we do when Rowan arrives after his school day is to wash hands. After he walks in the house, takes off shoes, and I listen to him share about the fun activities of the day, I always say, “Let’s wash your hands.”  “Mimi, why do I have to wash my hands?” That is always the question, even after we have established the routine of washing hands before lunch and playtime. I explain how he needs to have clean hands because he has played outside on the playground and touched lots of things that might have germs on them. Things like toys, crayons, paper, pencils, and other items might have extra germs, too. He understands and we head to the sink for Rowan to wash his hands. I wash my hands, too, because that is what Mimi’s do. If you wash your hands, I will wash mine, too. Enough soap is used to make bubbles fly in the air. We giggle while trying to pop the different sizes of bubbles. After we have clean hands, we are ready for lunch and playtime.

Sharing time with Rowan and his baby sister Eden reminds me of God’s commandments. His Word and laws were given to help us navigate life and to draw closer to Him. I wonder how often I talk instead of listening. How often does a message or nudge from God go unnoticed because I am too busy talking? We all need to share time with the Lord. Daily prayer and conversation with the Father can strengthen our faith.

Washing our hands is important. Washing away sin through going to God in prayer and seeking His forgiveness is important. When we pray and ask for the forgiveness of God, we are accepting responsibility for our actions. Acknowledging our sins and going to the Father to ask for His forgiveness and help is the first step in renewal of mind and body.

Listening before speaking can be a blessing to everyone involved. Even if the words want to spill out, there are times when pausing and listening is the best way. There may be times when we don’t need to speak. We only need to listen. Washing hands is one way to try and stay healthy. Asking God for His forgiveness is key to following His commandments.

Have you listened for His message? Have you asked for His forgiveness?

Perhaps you have enjoyed conversation with a child. We can learn from the young and the old.
Listen and wash your hands.

Blessings,
Melissa Henderson