The Theologian and the Apple Tree

Lately, Carter has been concerned with the superlativeness of God. In fact, we call it one-upping people with God. While we appreciate the eternal truth he is internalizing, it can be embarrassing when someone says, "Oh this candy is so sweet" and he responds with "God is sweeter." God is always stronger, faster, and just generally better. Or you might say "Carter, I love you so much" and he'll say, "I want you to love GOD!" These are but a few small examples of the constant reminder that God is bigger, better, and superlative to anything you can say or do. And really, how can you respond?? Sometimes I have to wonder if God is sending me a message through my 4 year old. When I'm worried about Will and his allergic reactions, it really is good to be reminded that I know who holds the Universe in his hand and who created my little lamb. We're pretty sure Carter has a future in the ministry or politics. Maybe both.
Two weeks ago tonight, we were packing our bags to go on a family vacation. Carter was to share a suitcase with Nathan. Nathan told Carter that he may pick two toys to take with him for the trip. The first was a given: Pounce. She is a beany baby cat semi-permanently borrowed from his Mimi. Carter and Pounce have a strong emotional bond. She went in the suitcase without hesitation. Then he puzzled over which of his other 2,000 toys would make the cut. His turmoil increased for about 15 minutes until inspiration came down from on high. His whole face lit up and he laughed an impish laugh. "I know! I got it! Him didn't say how big it had to be!" He ran off in whimsical joy to complete his packing duty. After a moment, curiousity overcame me and I peeked around the door. There, in the medium sized suitcase sat a large, bright green cash register. I laughed and laughed. Carter danced around the room with delight. I warned him that his Daddo wasn't going to let this one fly. He assured me that no parameters were placed on the size of his toy. What could I say? His skills of argument are directly descended from his Papa. Nathan walked in and caught a glimpse of the cash register in his suitcase and immediately began declaring that this would never do. I explained Carter's side, "after all, him didn't say how big!" Nathan beamed with pride. You see, the apple really doesn't fall far from the tree.