My son, keep your father’s commands and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life. Proverbs 6:20-23, NIV
As a mom, I am constantly seeing my Heavenly Father’s love and lessons in my daily life. There are so many times when I am experiencing life with my children that I have glanced toward heaven and said, “I have done that to You.”
For example…
When I give my children specific instructions on how to do something and they think they know better and do it differently, only to fail miserably–yes, I have done that to You.
When I tell them that a decision they are making is going to turn out badly for them, yet they continue with the decision only to learn the hard way–yes, I have done that to You.
When I encourage them to stretch themselves because I know they can overcome a challenge but they listen to their fear instead of me–yes, many times, I have done that to You.
When their words or actions do not reflect the values instilled in them–yes, sadly, I have done that to You.
When pride, expectations, stubbornness, curiosity, youthful ignorance, or plain old disobedience have taken over–yes, too many times to count, I have done that to You.
But, I thank you, Lord, for forgiving us. Through Your great love, I have learned how to offer the same forgiveness, patience, mercy, compassion, and self-control to my children, regardless of what they have done. The love between a mother and a child, much like the love between God and His children, is an indescribable love that grows and perseveres. I am thankful for the many glimpses God gives me to see our relationship through His eyes.
Heavenly Father, we ask You to reveal Your love to us in big and small ways through our daily lives. Help us see an area today where we can honor You more. And this weekend, we remember our mothers and thank You for the life they have given to us. Amen.
Copyright Kathy Branzell.
Kathy has a heart for encouraging Christian educators and currently serves as the President of the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Prior to this role, she was the founder and president of Fellowship and Christian Encouragement (FACE) for Educators.