I like coincidences mostly because I don't believe in them. Just like the idea of "luck", coincidences, the thought that two totally random actions occur at the exact same time or in near proximity to each other, has no place in Christian dialog. It's not luck or karma, or another influence based on how good I behave that rewards me with a roll of the dice or a winning lottery ticket (let's not talk about gambling today!). God determines all these things in His great scheme and for His own purposes. If there's any true "luck" then it is only that God has chosen me, or you, to grant what appears to be a great blessing or bounty.

I may say my Pastor was "lucky" when he received a newer van at no cost - but I've redefined the term. Or I'll say it with irony, knowing that luck played no part at all.

The coincidence then is another work of God and can be just as confusing. We can and do often think we've somehow made one thing to happen (magic?) when in reality we have no part in it. As I've stated elsewhere, we're hardwired to look for cause and effect relationships.

That's what I'm doing now: Looking for a cause for an effect where there isn't any. Certainly not under my control in this case.

Because it sure is some coincidence that two adult friends of mine within a week of each other brought up the fact that they did not receive much, if any, instructions as to what to do on their wedding night.

Yes. That's right. We're wondering where do little Fundamentalists come from.

At least I'm wondering. I know this is a very small sampling of the population at large but it still strikes me as at least a little bit odd. Perhaps someone who has studied church history can name one or more little sects (or large ones) that faded away for similar reasons.

I'm sure this is exaggerated on their parts just a tad when they both said basically the same thing: Alone with their new wifes for the first time, they turned to their spouse, looked deep into her eyes and said "Now what?" And meant it.

Comedy Gold.

Now, I'm not bringing this up just to poke fun at my friends. That's just a coincidence. The truth is that I've been thinking on this subject a lot lately.

No. Not like that.

My oldest boy is 12 and so far our conversations have been about attitudes and love and respect. Treat your sister nice because that's practice for your wife. See how I talk to your mother? Remember, your wife should be your best friend.  Stuff like that.

Oh, we've had the Biology 101 discussion which I think was more freaky for me than for him. And girls were still icky. But now... I'm beginning to suspect they aren't so icky anymore. And that brings up a whole new series - Biology 102, I guess.

So wish me luck as I pass on more wisdom to the next generation. And can anyone tell me what the birds and the bees really have to do with this conversation?