Pray without ceasing

Pray without ceasing
I have a grandson, Elijah, who is 21 months old. Oh what a joy he has been to my husband John and me! We could never have imagined the joy that one little boy could bring to our hearts. I could go on and on about what a smart and wonderful child he is...but I will try to keep my focus on prayer!
It has also been a joy to watch my son Dan and his wife Liza grow into their Christian parenting roles. From the time Elijah has been able to sit in his high chair and eat "people food" they have begun each meal with a simple prayer. They would clasp his tiny hands together and pray. Elijah would just look on in wonder. He would also watch Mommy and Daddy pray as they began their meal or on other occasions. They have begun to "bring [Elijah] up in the training and instruction of the Lord" Eph. 6:4. Being so young, some might say that he doesn't truly understand what he is doing and there is some truth to that. However, it is never too early to share the love of Jesus and our thankfulness for what He has so graciously given us.
I would never have thought that at 21 months, I would learn a spiritual lesson from Elijah! This past Saturday we were together at our home for supper. We set the table, sat Elijah in his high chair, and then we all sat down at the table. Without prompting and for the first time, on his own, Elijah clasped his tiny hands together and said "thank you Jesus"! Well, throughout our meal, I don't know how many times, Elijah clasped his hands and prayed "thank you Jesus." How precious are His children in His sight! Liza commented that this gave us all a fresh perspective on what it meant to pray without ceasing.
In 1 Thess.5:16-18, Paul instructs the young believers to "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Elijah has begun to live this verse out without ever reading it but observing his Mommy and Daddy live it. Oh, that I we would all pray without ceasing, at all times and in all circumstances. Not just lifting red flags of distress prayers, but prays of intersession and thanksgiving. I pray that as Elijah and any other grandchildren God may bless us with, watch my spiritual walk, they may see their grandmother pray without ceasing, from the time my eyes open in the morning until they close at night.
I can't wait to see what else God may show or teach me through the life of our Grandson, Elijah.
Prov. 17:6 Grandchildren are a crown to the aged. AMEN!
Mary Ann