Here are five new reasons why I love homeschooling (excerpts from my conversations with my son over the last two days of classes).
Reason 1: After watching an animated film about the crucifixion of Jesus Christ yesterday, Cole said, “Since Jesus died for us it is like we won’t end up thrown in the trashcan when we die, we will get recycled instead.” (That’s one way to put it, I suppose).
Reasons 2: After finishing our reading about the life of Solomon in history class, Cole said, “Mom, I am really looking forward to heaven. When I get there I will hug God first, then I will ask to see the dinosaurs with my own eyes, and then third I will ask him what my special gift is . Do you think it’s strength like Samson or wisdom like Solomon or something else?” I said, “I am not sure but perhaps it's wisdom Cole. But no matter what it is very important that we continue to ask for wisdom all along our journey in life.” Cole responded saying, “Yeah, I think you are right, I do really struggle some with bravery, especially at night time. Its like the controls in my brain aren’t working as well as they do in the day and it is difficult to capture all my fearful thoughts when it gets dark and late. “ I answered by telling him that I get more emotional at night too, I then explained that I know exactly what he means, and that he, like me, will just have to choose to believe in God’s Word even when our minds are weak and afraid. He said he was grateful to know that even as an adult I struggle sometimes too.
Reason 3: I was then reading Cole some of Solomon’s proverbs so that he would choose one to copy in his journal and memorize. When I asked, “Honey, which scripture verse do you want to write he said, “How about Second Samuel chapter 22 verse 3. I said, "We were reading the Proverbs, what made you say that verse in 2 Samuel?” He answered, “I don’t know mom, I don’t really know if there is a Second Samuel book.” I said, perhaps God gave you that thought because He has something for us written there, so let’s go and look and see what 2 Samuel chapter 22 verse 3 has to say.
And the verse reads, “My God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold, my high tower, my savior, the one who saves me from violence.” And when I finished reading those words, Cole said with great excitement, “Mom, this is the perfect verse for me. I am going to write this and learn it and draw a picture about how God protects me to help me when I am afraid and my controls in my brain aren't working so well.”
Reason 4: During Bible yesterday Cole said, “Do you think God will tell my story in a book for others to read like how we read about David and all the other great people of God. Like maybe a new New Testament or something. “ I answered saying, “I think he will Cole. God writes these books in order to testify through humans of what God is doing for the world through His Son Jesus, and since there is more for Jesus to do, like return and reign, I wouldn’t be surprised if He’s keeping record of our lives for others to read someday. It actually says that he writes each of our names in His book of life in heaven when we first believe. No matter what is written we do know that He knows and cares about everything going on with each of us.” "That's great mom, Cole answered."
Reason 5: As we finished school today Cole said, “Mom, remember when we were in Nashville and I asked you if God has a wife and you told me that we are all going to be his heavenly bride even if we are boys. Well, I think how I now understand what this means is that we are his best friends just like a wife is to a husband - like you and dad. Don’t you think that's what it means mom?” I answered saying, “Yes, perhaps He is preparing a best friend for himself - and maybe because He’s lonely.” Cole responded, “Well, I don’t think he’s lonely since Isabella is with him and all the others who already have gone to heaven; but don’t worry, I know what you are trying to say Mom.”
I experienced the Grace of God these past two days through the mind, heart, and voice of a precious seven year old little boy whom God has lovingly entrusted to me. Thank you Lord for showing up for Cole and for me in these ways - You are teaching me so much in these quiet days at home.
I was just telling my husband tonight that I wish we could record everything our son says to remember someday when he is grown. It is one of our favorite loves of homeschooling also,
Posted by: Julie in Ca | December 03, 2009 at 03:06 AM
What a blessing to be able to experience these little moments! Thank you for sharing! Oh, and which animated film did you watch with them on the crucifixion?
Posted by: Lauren | December 03, 2009 at 05:02 AM
This brings back fond memories of my homeschooling days with my son.
....And Kerry pondered these things in her heart.....
Posted by: Cindi M. | December 03, 2009 at 08:07 AM
So good! There will be many more blessings to come because of homeschooling, some you will not experience until the later years. Lots of blessings in store!
Posted by: Carla Craig | December 07, 2009 at 03:44 PM
Why I love (that K.H. is) Homeschooling
1.The Lord is glorified!
2.Glorified the Lord is!
3.Is the Lord ever glorified!
Posted by: kathy naylor | December 11, 2009 at 09:49 AM
Kerry,
Are you and your family going to lift up the prayer bowl (incense) again this year? I really appreciated your prayers last year.
I could feel them.
Love from NC.
Posted by: cindi m. | December 15, 2009 at 07:37 AM
You are such an inspiration to me.
Posted by: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1660693671 | December 18, 2009 at 12:14 AM
Kerry, Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family. Bill
Posted by: Bill Dolbow | December 18, 2009 at 08:10 PM
Where are you, Kerry? Is everything ok?
Do you ever struggle with the "Joy" because you are so blessed and feel bad (almost guilty-ish) because everyone isn't as fortunate in life's circumstances as you? Especially around the holidays? (OK sorry. Just thinking out loud. I'll quit.)
Anyway,
I wish you, Scott, Cole, Maya, your folks & all your extended family a
Very Merry (Kerry)Christmas!
Love from NC.
Posted by: cindi m | December 23, 2009 at 02:18 PM
Praying for you Kerry. Hope you had a Blessed Christmas.
Posted by: Ann | December 26, 2009 at 04:53 PM