Finding Joy in Prayers: A Review of When I Pray for You
As a mom of three busy little ones, bedtime can sometimes feel like a chaos-filled circus act. Between the last-minute bathroom trips and requests for another snack, the peaceful moments I long for can be hard to come by. One night, after the whirlwind of dinner and playtime, I found myself snuggled in bed with my youngest, ready to read When I Pray for You by Matthew Paul Turner. Our cozy routine often fades into separate worlds of sleepiness, but that night, the tender message of this book held us together in a beautiful way.
When I Pray for You is an absolute gem. The lyrical prose invites readers into the heart of a parent, beautifully capturing the dreams and hopes we harbor for our children. Turner, who also penned When God Made You, weaves a heartfelt narrative about how parents pray for their little ones, ushering them with faith and love through each stage of life. With vivid illustrations by Kimberley Barnes, each page bursts with whimsy and color.
My kids, ages 4 and 6, were mesmerized by the artwork. They pointed out every detail, their eyes lighting up with curiosity at the playful scenes depicting children exploring the world. The gentle cadence of Turner’s writing made it a delight to read aloud. Each line flowed so effortlessly that my kids were enchanted, leaning in closer, eager to catch the next heartwarming sentiment.
One of my favorite moments during our reading came when I asked my kids what they thought I’d pray for them. My daughter, in her sweet yet serious way, said, “For me to share my toys.” And my son chimed in, “For me to be the fastest runner!” It turned an already tender book into a sweet conversation about their hopes. I loved seeing their little minds race with the possibilities — a reminder that children’s imaginations are boundless.
The refrain, “From the moment I saw you, I started to pray,” resonated deeply with me. It encapsulates the rush of love and hope that washes over parents from the very first moment of holding their child. The tender illustrations paired with warm words felt like a gentle hug, something every parent needs — a reassurance that our hopes are heard, and our love is immense.
I wholeheartedly recommend When I Pray for You for families with children ages 2-8. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt gift for a baby shower or simply a new bedtime favorite, this book fits the bill. It has nestled its way into our regular rotation, and my kids ask for it again and again.
Honestly, this book touches the depths of my heart, reminding me of the daily prayers I send God’s way for my little ones. It invites us to slow down, reflect, and cherish those fleeting moments while also nurturing their dreams. More than just a story, it’s a celebration of love and hope — a lasting addition to any family’s bookshelf. Now, if only we could just get through the bedtime circus a little more smoothly…!
