On Mother's Day

On this Mother's Day, I commend the reading of the Gospel Coalition's "8 Things I want My Toddler to Thank his Mom For (in 20 years)."

In a child-centered and self-centered world I rejoice that I have a wife, and a mom, who personify these characteristics as they follow Christ.  I strongly commend the article to you for your soul's good.  I paraphrase each concept below.  Happy Mother's Day!

1.  It's really not all about the kids.  Moms give children identity (in Christ), not vice verse.

2.  Teach your kids:  always strive for your absolute best, and give yourself tons of grace when you miss the mark.  But never become okay with something less than your best.

3.  As a Mom:  be the first to say "I am sorry," and "Please forgive me."  Don't live in the shadow of dark guilt.  God forgives first and best.

4.  Changing this world will come through 80 years of daily obedience to Christ--not from your kid's ability to throw a ball or play a violin.  Keep this in mind.  Character development ranks higher than abilities on the importance meter.

5.  Day-in, day-out: review it in prayer, reading and modelling:  God is your kid's only hope.  And they don't "get it" (or "have Him") just because they prayed a prayer.  Keep living out the Gospel.  Every day.

6.  If your life is defined by one human relationship, its the love you have for your husband--your kid's dad.  That means your life is not defined by how your kid responds to you (or not) today.  Be the best wife you can be.  If you are divorced, honor your kid's dad with every word you utter.

7.  Bring your kid to church and teach them to serve at your side.  Let them stay at church for hours.  Let them be inconvenienced by the fact that you are (at least sometimes) the last to leave.  Prayerfully understand your kid's spiritual gift before they do and encourage them in it.  This is part of what it means to "Train up a child in the way he should go . . ."

8.  Let your life be gladly inconvenienced by your kid.  And never point it out to them (or rarely!).  They won't get it for many years, but maybe they will thank you in 20 years.

Thanks, Nikki, for living this legacy!  I love you!