As a child, I was known in our neighborhood.

Almost daily, I would go out into our backyard and swing, sometimes for an hour or more. And, while I was swinging I would sing praise songs to Jesus, at the top of my lungs.

I would sing songs I’d learned at church, songs I’d heard on the radio, songs I’d played over and over again on tape. I would sing every song I could think of, and then sing them again. And every song was sung at top volume, my little voice carrying over the wooden fence and wafting to all of my neighbors.

I was, of course, oblivious that my singing was being overheard. I was just expressing my joy, and my heart was loud.

This morning, I was pushing Jackson on the swing, and he started singing “Jesus loves the little children” at the top of his lungs while flying back and forth.

I encouraged him to keep singing, and to let his praises to Jesus ring loudly. You are never to young to let your joy echo in the wind, to burst out in song to the Savior! Even if every neighbor hears, a child’s praise should not be contained.

The LORD is my strength and my shield;
   my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
   and with my song I praise him.

– Psalm 28:7