Mr. Ugly Jelly Bean

“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” – Mark 10:15

The first thing I wanted when I was discharged from the hospital was to see my two little angels. They ran to the front door, hugged me tightly, and welcomed me with their brightest smiles because finally, we were united again. I was happy but also in pain thinking about them going through this unexpected journey at such a young age.

Soon after I sat down, my 7-year-old daughter asked me what illness I had. It was not possible for me to explain in detail, and I didn't want to trigger any fear in her, as she wouldn't understand it anyway. So, I told her there was something like a jelly bean that was not supposed to be in my chest, and we needed to pray together so that God would remove it very soon. Before she went on to her next question, I asked her to give it a name. After thinking for a few seconds, she named it, and we started to pray for Mr. Ugly Jellybean.

Children have genuine faith. When they trust God, they have no doubts about His power. It's no wonder Jesus told His disciples to learn from a child’s faith. Instead of hiding my burden, I brought in my two girls as prayer partners. I taught them a simple prayer and asked them to lay their hands on my chest. They drew a defeated Mr. Ugly Jellybean on paper with the Cross next to it and wrote in their prayers: “In the name of Jesus, the jellybean will disappear!” I said Amen to their prayer, and I could see how God continues to use my daughters to comfort and assure me about His promises to our family.

If you are in a similar situation, I can feel the fear you have right now. Fear of not being able to see our loved ones anymore, fear of leaving our children too soon, or any other worry concerning the unpredictable future. Instead of feeling trapped like a victim, bring your family members together and start building a chain of prayers to bring heaven down to your home. Prayers will also unite you with your loved ones. Keep believing that your family is under His care, and He will never plan to harm your children's future.

Family prayers touch the heart of God.