Stinky Night

     Sweet Pea, my husband, and I curled together at the end of the night. The day had been long. Yet God had been faithful. He blessed each of us with enough strength and energy to finish the day. Now, my most favorite time of the day was about to unfold. Devotions and story time.

     My husband and Sweet Pea sat on the bed while I reclined on the floor. With the pages of the Bible open, we flipped to passages of Scripture. After a long day, these Words of Truth ministered peace to my heart. To feed in God’s Word together with family members is a time I cherish. But of recent, of equal enjoyment is the new time of reading stories after devotions. A captivating chapter book for children, adults and child alike anxiously await to discover what happens next.

     For the past two weeks, we have without fail, read a chapter a night. Tonight was no different. Eagerly, Sweet Pea and I listened to my husband begin the nightly reading. His legs and feet rested on the edge of the mattress as he read.  Sweet Pea loomed bracelets while I stretched my legs on the floor.

     Straining to touch my toes, my fingers extended out. Leaning forward, I flattened my back and bent my head. TO my surprise, a stinky scent whiffed up my nostrils. What is that? I wondered, wrinkling my nose. With head still bowed and legs straight, I continued inching downward. My muscles strained.

     Then, the edge of my nose brushed something…The foul smell increased. Before I knew it, my nostril enclosed over a foreign object. What in the world? And what is that awful smell?

     Realization struck. A lightbulb flashed. My nostril had descended upon one of my husband’s bare toes. Shocked, my head froze. Reality kicked in and I jerked upright. My husband spasmed with laughter as did I.

     “What? What?” demanded Sweet Pea, “What is going on?” A huge grin spread over her face. She did not want to be left out of the hilarity. Though she did not know the cause, she was ready to join in the fun.

     “Mommy just picked her nose with my toe,” my husband teased, a twinkle in his eyes.

     “Eew!” shrieked my little girl, convulsing with giggles. The three of us collapsed into laughter.

     “You’re father’s….feet…stink!” I gasped out, tears running down my cheeks.

     For the rest of the evening, giggles and fun lightened our hearts and lifted our weariness. Even as we prayed, teasing and laughter pervaded our fellowship with God and each other. For the joy of the Lord is our strength. And He pours out the oil of joy over us that we may be raised up and delight in Him.
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     Friends and fellow parents, I pray you will know joy this day. May you look for opportunities to laugh and rejoice in your everyday circumstances. Take advantage of each moment of fun, especially with your family and children. May praise and joy inhabit your home and heart. Amen.