It was like any other night of putting Lilli to sleep.

She asked for five books (which was negotiated to two) and then, when those were done, she wanted me to sing some songs. I started off with “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” which she always requests first, and then I went on to “You are My Sunshine.”

But she stopped me.

“Sing the beans song, Mimmie.”

Blank stare.

“You know, the one about the beans.”

Deer. Headlights.

“Mimmie, come on!”

The only thing I knew to do was to start singing every song that I’d ever sung to her and hope I landed on it.

After two failed attempts, I started singing “Silent Night.”

She got really quiet, and didn’t interrupt.

When I got to the chorus, she sat up and chimed in…

Round yon virgin, mother and child,

Holy infant so tender and mild.

Sleep in heavenly BEANS…

Sleep in heavenly BEANS!

Obviously proud of herself, and me for finally catching on, she gave me a kiss and hug, and told me that she loved me.

I walked out with a smile on my face, and a song in my heart. It was filled with heavenly beans.

I hope yours is, too.

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 ESV

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3 ESV

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15 ESV