Some days I KNOW that what I'm doing matters. Meeting physical needs takes most of my time- getting the kids fed, cleaned, clothed, and helping them use the restroom takes literally most of my day. But that's worth it. I mean, they can't do these things on their own yet. So though it's physically tiring (maybe simply from the repetition), it's just a given.
But some days (today, of course). . . I'm also aware of the eternal nature of my "job" as a mother. Today was intense! It was training the 5 year old in respect. (why, for instance, it isn't really appropriate nor respectful to take off your shirt during children's choir practice.) It was training the 3 year old in FIRST time obedience. (why, for instance, it's not okay to slowly get to your feet and meander to your mother when she has already asked you sweetly several times to COME, let her brush your teeth.) It was a grueling stand-off with the 1 year old, a sheer battle of wills. (and today's score shows that I'm losing. She, for instance, refuses to make eye contact when I've asked her to look at me. She also refuses to drink from her cup unless I totally relinquish cup-control to her. Obviously, these are not good things to go toe-to-toe with her on. But STILL! These are mere examples.)
Ultimately, it was all about the gospel. All of these issues stemmed from the heart-issue of self-righteousness, of thinking that we are our own little gods and that we really shouldn't have to bow our knee. . . to anyone. Oh, let me take this lesson to heart! For it is my lesson, too. Let me lead them in humility. Let the gospel be real and obvious in our home.
No comments:
Post a Comment