Conversations with Poppi about God
Ben just posted and introduced us to a new book entitled "Conversations with Poppi about God". One of the authors is none other than the famous Princeton theologian Robert Jenson. But this time, he seems to meet his match, as his co-author appears to be much more adventurous and open and full of insights just to say the least.
Who's that? Solveig Lucia Gold, Jenson's (Poppi) eight-year-old granddaughter. According to Ben, take this for example:
Solveig: When people thought of Santa Claus – the idea of Santa Claus is very much like God…
Poppi: No. It’s not.
Solveig: Sort of. He’s just very jolly and very…
Poppi: […] He is a little bit like God…
Solveig: Very much like God.
And how about this:
Poppi: Actually, I agree with you too. I think Father, Spirit, Son is probably a better arrangement.
Solveig: Have you thought that since you were born, or have you…
Poppi: No, just the last couple of years.
Solveig: You did?
Poppi: Yeah.
Solveig: When you started reading all these theologians?
Poppi: I am a theologian; I don’t just read them. It’s an idea that’s floating around with a lot of us these days. Colin Gunton – our friend who just died – was very big on having the Holy Spirit in there right from the start.
Solveig: He’s probably listening to us right now.
Poppi: Could be.
I think it is just delightful to talk to kids about God. Each time I am surprised by their casual and yet insightful comments. I already said that my 19-month-old could be a great cultural critic, but I am equally surprised today by her ability to pinpoint the keywords while listening to the bible-sing-along on the way to her babysitter:
"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." (proverbs 18.10)
and she echoed by saying "… are safe…. are safe….. are safe….. are safe…."
I always think the Holy Spirit has a special way to communicate with little children that is beyong words, logic and reasons. One day when you become someone else's father, you will know what I mean.