Another Lesson in Love

I reached a significant milestone this year. Similar to a lot of folks I like to mark such points along my timeline in a special way. So, this year my family, have shouted me a holiday. However, not everyone is able to be part of the plan which means that those who are able, have to make an extra effort to make this happen. No mother likes to see their kids struggle, particularly when they are doing it, to show you how much they love you.

Sadly, and I need to apologise to my kids for this, as I have watched them struggle with the stress of making this happen I have allowed it to rob me of the joy of having the first real holiday I have had since my honeymoon.

As I pondered this, Jesus reminded me that He showed me how much He loved me when He came down to earth, walked along side humanity and went to the cross. Yet, while Jesus willingly did this, it was also filled with struggles. He had to face persecution from those in power not only in secular politics but also in the church. His struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane is well documented. (Matthew 26:36-46). I asked a question. “Do you allow His struggle to rob you of your happiness in a life that is saved, enriched by the power of the Holy Spirit and eternity in Heaven?”, hardly!

So, today I make two promises; firstly, to my children and to God to look forward to my holiday. To enjoy it in the same way that I show gratitude to God each day for the strength, courage and help that He gives me through the Holy Spirit and our Christian family all over the world. Secondly, I promise to appreciate just how much my God and my children show me how much they love me in whatever ways they can. Irrespective of that being in ways that are small, big or anything in between.