Ellie bounced into the kitchen. "Mommy, can we have tea today?" she asked with bright eyes. Mommy smiled warmly. "What a wonderful idea, sweetie! Let's set up our tea party together." Ellie clapped her hands with joy. They pulled out the special teacups with flowers on them. Mommy helped Ellie arrange cookies on a pretty plate. "This will be our special time," Mommy said, giving Ellie a hug. Ellie felt so happy and loved.

They sat down at the little table. Ellie accidentally spilled some pretend tea. "Oh no!" she cried. Mommy gently touched her hand. "It's okay, sweetheart. That's what grace means. Jesus forgives us when we make mistakes." Ellie looked up. "Really?" she asked. "Really," Mommy nodded. "Jesus loves us no matter what." Ellie smiled and carefully poured more tea. "I can try again," she said bravely. Mommy beamed with pride. "That's my strong girl!"

"Mommy, how can I be strong?" Ellie asked, munching a cookie. Mommy thought carefully. "Jesus was strong by being kind and loving others." Ellie's eyes grew wide. "Even when it was hard?" she wondered. "Especially when it was hard," Mommy explained. "Being strong means choosing to be good." Ellie nodded slowly. "I want to be like Jesus!" she declared. Mommy hugged her tight. "You already are, my darling. You have such a loving heart."

Ellie held Mommy's hands across the table. "Can we pray?" she asked sweetly. "Of course," Mommy said softly. They bowed their heads together. "Thank you, Jesus, for Mommy and for teaching us about grace," Ellie prayed. "And for making us strong," Mommy added. They squeezed each other's hands. When they looked up, both were smiling. "I love our tea time," Ellie whispered. "Me too, precious girl," Mommy replied. Their hearts felt full of joy and love.