Recently I was engaged in a theological debate. My opponent was sharp, quick witted, and spiritually deep.  For every point I made my opponent volleyed my opinion with a stealth, but engaging, response.

7 year old:  Daddy how do I know that you love me?

Dad: Well because I do.

7 year old:  Daddy…that doesn’t tell how I KNOW that you love me.

Dad: Well because I provide the things you need.  Food, a house, clothes and stuff like that.

7 year old:  Oh ok.  (slight pause) Daddy why do you love me?

Dad: Uh…well because you are you.

7 year old: But WHO am I daddy?

Dad: You are miserable, rotten wretch.   A sinner that deserves to die.  The scum that scum calls scum.  In fact you’re so terrible you deserve DEATH.

7 year old: (through tears) Daddy do you really think that I am all that? (sniffle, sniffle)

Dad:  Yep

7 year old:  (sobbing) Daddy…How can you say that and still say that you love me.

Dad: Well I already told you that I give you things that you don’t deserve.  Food, a house, clothing etc…(exasperated) C’mon you gotta keep up if we are ever gonna  believe that I love you.

7 year old:  (drying tears)  I’m sorry Dad.  I’ll try to do better.

Dad:  Okay.

7 year old: Boy, Daddy, the fact that you explained that I suck and everything you give me I don’t deserve sure makes me want to love you. 

Dad: Good.  Just always remember that I created you to be the scourge of the Earth and nothing you do could ever make me love you.

7 year old: (starting to cry again) I’ll try Daddy.

Dad: Don’t worry if you ever forget I’ll have people, who I also created,  scream, write, and blog to constantly remind you that you are absolutely NO GOOD.

7 year old:  Daddy you would do that for me?

Dad: You betcha!  Cause remember; I Love you kiddo!