The scene played out with very different views. All eyes were focused on the young child. As the main character, the set-up for the moment right now was all his doing! As he explained the situation to his mother, the supporting character, his look of innocence was perfectly played.
I watched, wondering if his words would match the truth conveyed by his face.
My paraphrase of his response to the question on every face. There was a situation which had become a cleaning problem. As needed, he went into action using the tools at hand. He now needed help to clean up his solution.
The hand sanitizer jar was empty. Apparently, this was the tool at hand. The carpet and furniture had a slick glistening sheen which explained where the sanitizer had been applied.
Even as he rubbed his feet, ensuring every drop was thoroughly massaged into the carpet fibers, his look of innocence was compelling.
As an outsider, I was convinced he was telling the truth as he knew it. I could not sense any effort to deceive or cover up. Imaging myself in his shoes, the hidden words in his facial expression included the following.
There was trouble and I came to help.
This is what I did, but now I am not sure if it was the right thing to do.
No matter what, “be good to your good [child /] people, God, to those whose hearts are right!” (Psalm 125.4)
Mom’s response demonstrated to me how God works with my good intent.
There was a loving gentleness in her inquiry. The short open questions gave the young boy plenty of time to think, even as his body language told the truth.
I hear wonder and love in her response to his explanation. This child was being bathed in understanding and support.
I watched as feedback unfolded and learnings were accepted.
As I replay the scene in my mind, I see an echo of God listening and responding to my well-intended by often not so good responses to situations. God loves us, always.
