Growing up

Last night, following supper, I retreated into the bathroom to watch the two youngest boys in the bathtub. Dave had gone outside to clean up the backyard before some late winter rain; and I, left spouseless, hadn't felt able to tackle the messy dining room and mountain of dishes. The twins were left with no specific instructions. About 10 minutes into bathtime, the twinlets arrived at the door and breathlessly told me that I just had to see the kitchen and dining room.
"In a bit," I responded.
They ran back out and then told me to wait even longer as they had more work to do. Hmmm, I wondered, what were they up to?
When they finally ushered me out of the bathroom and into the dining room, I was greeted by a cleared table, a swept floor and a full dishwasher. Do I need to mention that two almost-six-year-old faces were also beaming with pride and satisfaction? I was gushing in my praise as their efforts had actually made a tremendous difference (in the kitchen as well as in my heart). Oh, and yes, the extra work that they had mentioned was in their bedrooms which I later found in perfect order. Apparently their efforts are part of their new Lenten resolve.
Jacob, who easily sails to the heights of joyous satisfaction, told me that he was going to tell everyone at school what he had done. I, recognising a teachable moment, said, "But, Jacob, you should always keep your good deeds to yourself so that your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Throw in a little Scripture - always a good idea.) He thought about this and responded, "OK, I'll just tell my principal." Go straight to the top, little man...