This quote is one that hit home with me....we sometimes view our children as a hindrance to our involvement in God's plan. Anyone who has tried to lead a Bible study while keeping a toddler entertained or counsel a distraught friend while a baby cries in the background knows how difficult it can be. We need to remind ourselves and each other that our family is our primary ministry and not a frustrating obstacle to "real" ministry.This is a good reminder for me. I'm in a season of saying no, staying home and focusing on these little ones. It's not what I necessarily imagined I would be doing. Sometimes I have moments where I think about my giftings and talents, things I'm good at that I'm not doing. It can be a little frustrating. I'll hear of a need in church or somewhere and think, "I could do that." And then remember, no, I can't do that, not now. Maybe later. I don't know when. I don't know when this season will end. I'm sure at some point I'll feel able to add something to my plate, little by little possibly as the children become more independent.
In the meantime I am determined not to miss out on this precious time while I'm at home. I want to make the most of it because I know it won't last forever. That's part of the reason I do this blog. To visually see the things we're doing, document these days, share the successes and triumphs, get encouragement through the tough times and find a connection. Thanks for reading along, by the way, and sharing in our journey!
It is encouraging to view this season with purpose and excitement. Here's something to remember when the day seems to be dragging.
The aspect of mothering that excites me most is knowing I am making a permanent difference in my children's lives. I am a woman of influence. I impart values, stimulate creativity, develop compassion, modify weaknesses, and nurture strengths. I can open life up to another individual. and I can open an individual up to life.
When I read my child a story I am doing far more than entertaining him. I am expanding his world with language, words, thoughts, and imagination.
When I sit beside my child's bed at night to talk and pray, I'm doing far more than cultivating a bedtime ritual. I'm tuning in to what he is thinking, catching up on his day, listening for fears, hopes, and questions. This personal time gives me an opportunity to point him to the Lord Jesus Christ and His relevance to the situations my child faces.
