"I can't wait `til this weekend" I heard myself telling a friend. " My husband and I are finally going on a date. And boy, do I need it!" The problem was it was only Monday. I had to make it through a whole week until the much-needed date would arrive. What would I do throughout the week? Would my children hear me wish for the weekend every time they spilled their juice, argued with each other, or came crying that they were "hurt" again!
I was simply surviving my days in order to make it to the oasis -- the weekend, the girl's night out, the day your child starts pre-school, or maybe college -- You fill in the blank. Because I was looking to the future to bring contentment, I found myself being very discontent during the day. I was impatient, distracted and irritable.
That day I felt God tugging at my heart. I realized that I was wasting my todays because I was so focused on tomorrow. I had to ask for forgiveness for rushing the precious moments God had given me. I thanked Him for the simple things, like chubby little hands, toys in the floor, incessant eight year-old giggling, tear-filled eyes, and the soft skin of a child (just to name a few).
Because motherhood is so demanding, it is easy to find ourselves "longing for tomorrow." But when we do, our days become very long. Where are you today? Where is your focus? Is it in the moment? Or, are you looking forward to something so badly that you are simply surviving today?
A few years ago I remember hurrying to get out the door. My then, 3 year old son asked, "Mommy, can you help me with my pants?" Frustrated that I had one more thing to do and knowing I was already late, I blurted, "I can't wait `til you learn to button your pants all by yourself." Immediately, God reminded me of the impact of that statement. In an almost audible voice I heard Him gently say, "Laurie, it won't be long `til he won't need you as much. The day is soon coming when he will no longer even ask. And you will wish he would." My son is eleven now. He doesn't need help with his pants anymore. Sometimes I wish he needed me a little more!
Father, thank you for today. Help me remember that it in itself is a gift. Forgive me when I have been so focused on tomorrow that I have missed the blessings you provide in each day. Help my eyes and ears to see and hear all you have for me in the simple, daily activities of life. I long to embrace right where you have me, knowing that freedom and contentment come when I rest in You. Thank you for giving me strength I need for each day. I love You and ask all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
______________________ PS...Speaking of longing - Our new devotional book is at the printers!... But you'll have to "long" for the next MeM to get a sneak peak of the cover!.... tee hee! :) Laurie
Mother's Day is coming soon....Is "Mom...and Loving It!" available at your local bookstore?
If not, ask the manager to order several copies from Bethany House. Your friends (and especially some dads!) will be glad they are available locally!
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Or, if you need multiple books for a study group, order 5 from us and get 1 free!
