The Land Of Motherhood (Home Of The Brave)

We talked about the significance that is found in the small. A key element to pursuing both the big and the small is bravery.

Parenting definitely requires bravery; it is hard work. Getting down to the nitty-gritty can be exhausting. Being around each other in large doses can bring out less-than-lovely attitudes as moods swing and tempers fly.

Getting through to a child’s heart is more challenging than just keeping him busy. When he yells, or she lies, or he sneaks or she cries, you come face-to-face with the grit of parenting. But, doesn’t His grace meet you there too? In the “I’m sorry” and ” You were right” and “I messed up again” and “I forgive you” we find a practical picture of the gospel.

When that child gets under your skin, wrap your arms around them, holding them close.
When they don’t get along with each other, teach them to forgive long and give grace in heavy doses.

Bravery is required as you face the land of monotony.
Courage is needed as you scale the mountains of motherhood.

Your knees knock as you follow-through on that consequence that you’ve been threatening to give for the past eight hours. Your selfishness surrenders as you put down your book and look him in the eyes, listening to him explain—in great detail—all about his latest Lego creation.

Your steps are shaky as you feel your way around in the dim light of morning; uncertain if you have what it takes to face the demands of the coming day.

But, as you move forward, clumsy yet determined, you are impacting the small around you in a big way. You are brave mother. In Christ you have everything you need for life and godliness (see 2 Peter 1:3).

This parenting gig is not easy but it is definitely pretty amazing.

Remember:

They care more about your smile than your lipstick (or lack of it).
They care more about your hugs than they do about your squishy middle.
They care more about your presence than a Pinterest-pretty house.
They care more about pleasing you than you think they do.

They are crazy about you even when they are driving you nuts.
They want you to linger at bedtime even if they roll their eyes about it.
They think you are smart even though you can’t remember where you put the car keys.
They love you and just want you to be there and love them fully, quirks and all.

Someone once said, “They don’t need perfect, they just want you”. So true.

They are watching you closer than you realize and they are glad that you are their mom.