PAID

My son has inspired me. I’m sure that’s an astounding thought for some of you who know him but he has. He came down the stairs last night asking, “Mommy, do you like my stamps?” It took a minute for me to realize what he had done but only a split second to know that there would be quite a mess waiting for me upstairs.
While Kayla had been playing on the computer, my son had taken my “PAID” stamp and posted it all over himself. “PAID September 04, 2007” it read. I was holding Sierra and immediately looked to Scott and said, “This one’s yours.” Then I turned around so I could burst into hysterical laughter, as quietly as possible, of course. Scott turned around, glanced at Colton, looked at me and then back again. I ran down the hallway for the camera and listened for what Scott would do.
By now, Colton was wondering if it was such a good idea to show us his artwork. Scott and I, very coolly asked him to show us his stamps and took a picture. Neither of us were very composed by the time that was done. We walked upstairs, Scott washed it off and I very sternly (really!) told him that the stamp was not to be touched ever again.
Later that night I got to laughing again and realized how much God must laugh at us. We make our messes, ask for forgiveness, and then brand ourselves with a “PAID” stamp almost as if we are reminding ourselves of what we’ve done. Soon we’re covered in stamps and we have neglected to realize that God has forgotten all about each and every mess we’ve made the very instant we asked him to forgive us.
The only “PAID” stamp that we need is the one on our hearts and the only way that will ever be seen is through the way we live our lives and handle our messes. We have to ask God to help, let Him laugh at us a little, and then wash away all the reminders of what we’ve done. His Son paid more than enough for me… I don’t need to keep reminding Him of it!
Oh, and if you’re wondering, we’ve also paid for my desk, some envelopes, the carpet in Sierra’s room, my office chair, the printer, the stairwell, and I’m sure some other miscellaneous objects that we will discover at a later date.
Good Job, Colton!