Episode 29: Kindergarten Joy, Softball Swings, and Childlike

As the school year comes to a close, there's no better way to celebrate the end of another chapter than with a heartwarming conversation filled with laughter, love, and a powerful reminder of what it means to have childlike faith. In this special episode of the Gospel and Gradebooks podcast, host Jamie is joined by a very special guest - his daughter, Nae.

At just 6 years old, Nae is a shining example of the kind of joy, simplicity, and trust in Jesus that we should all strive for. From her favorite parts of kindergarten to her budding softball skills and her unwavering love for her Savior, Nae's infectious enthusiasm is a breath of fresh air that will inspire and refresh your spirit.

As the school year comes to a close, Nae is brimming with excitement for the start of summer vacation. When asked about her favorite part of kindergarten, her answer is simple yet profound: "My favorite thing about kindergarten was in the mornings. I love to give Miss Driggers a hug and her teaching us."

Nae's deep appreciation for her teacher, Miss Driggers, is a testament to the impact that educators can have on young lives. Even at such a tender age, Nae recognizes the hard work and dedication that her teacher has poured into her growth and learning. It's a heartwarming reminder that the little things, like a simple hug and words of encouragement, can make a world of difference.

But Nae's interests extend far beyond the classroom. As a budding softball player, she's already discovered a love for the sport and the thrill of being on the field. When asked about her favorite position, Nae enthusiastically shares her experience from a recent game:

• "I played softball and I was in the outfield, and it was actually pretty fun. I was, you know, second base. I was in the outfields, like beside second base, but in the outfields I had to go on the other side of second and Maddie had to throw the ball. If Maddie misses it, then I have to get the ball and make her a target and I have to touch second base when I get the ball."

Nae's attention to detail and her eagerness to learn the game is a testament to her dedication and her desire to excel. Even at such a young age, she's already grasping the nuances of softball and the importance of teamwork and communication on the field.

But it's not just the thrill of the game that Nae loves about softball. It's the special time she gets to spend with her dad, who is actively involved in coaching her team. As Nae shares, "I really want to be out softball. I mean, it's fun. It's really fun. I'm glad that my dad is out there paying a lot of attention to me."

The bond between Nae and her dad is palpable, and it's clear that their shared love of softball is just one of the many ways they connect and build their relationship. It's a beautiful reminder of the power of quality time and the lasting impact that engaged, present parents can have on their children.

While Nae's enthusiasm for softball and her kindergarten experience is infectious, it's her unwavering faith in Jesus that truly sets her apart. When asked about her favorite Bible story, Nae doesn't hesitate: "Jesus healing people."

Nae's deep admiration for Jesus and his supernatural abilities is a testament to the power of a childlike faith. In her eyes, Jesus is the ultimate superhero, with the ability to control the earth, make it rain, and even heal the sick. It's a perspective that is both simple and profound, and it's a reminder that we can all learn from the faith of a child.

But Nae's faith isn't just passive admiration. She's actively seeking ways to grow closer to God and share her love for Jesus with others. As she shares, "What makes me feel closer to God is praying. 'Cause that really helps me when I'm mad and sad." Nae also finds joy in singing praise and worship songs, and she even took the bold step of sharing the love of Jesus with a friend at school.

Nae's willingness to be bold in her faith is a powerful example for us all. As Jesus said in Matthew 18:3, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Nae's simple trust, her eagerness to learn, and her desire to share the good news of Jesus Christ are all qualities that we would do well to emulate.

When asked about her vision of heaven, Nae's response is both imaginative and profound. She shares, "One thing is I know it is freedom and joy and we can if we make mistakes, everyone will forgive us and our body will be new and we'll have a new life and we can do everything. We will not run out. We don't We won't even have to use money to get stuff."

Nae's description of heaven is a beautiful blend of childlike wonder and deep spiritual understanding. She recognizes the freedom, joy, and forgiveness that await us in the afterlife, and she's eager to experience the newness of life that God has promised. It's a perspective that is both simple and profound, and it's a reminder that we can all learn from the faith of a child.

But Nae's faith isn't just about the promise of heaven. It's also about the power of forgiveness and the unconditional love of God. As she shares, "If you make a mistake, he will forgive you all the time." Nae's understanding of God's grace and mercy is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel, and it's a message that we would all do well to embrace.

As the conversation with Nae comes to a close, it's clear that this pint-sized powerhouse has a lot to teach us about what it means to have a childlike faith. From her joy and enthusiasm for the simple things in life to her unwavering trust in Jesus and her willingness to be bold in her faith, Nae is a shining example of the kind of faith that we should all strive for.

So, as you wrap up the school year and look ahead to the summer, take a moment to reflect on the lessons that Nae has shared. Embrace the wonder and simplicity of a child's perspective, and let it inspire you to deepen your own relationship with God. Remember that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who have the faith of a child, and let Nae's example be a guiding light on your own spiritual journey.

And don't forget to follow us on social media and subscribe to gospelandgradebooks.com to stay up-to-date on all the latest episodes of the Gospel and Gradebooks podcast. Who knows, you might just hear from Nae again soon!