As a homeschooling mom of four kids, I rarely enjoy a single solitary moment with no interruptions. I love being with my kids, but I was overjoyed at the prospect of a few hours all to myself while the kids went to horse camp today. All week long my mind was busy planning how I could best utilize this time.
· Getting a hair cut for the first time in 6 months
· Cleaning and organizing the house
· Catching up on paperwork
· Buying paint
· A trip to the post office to mail long overdue packages
· A leisurely visit to the fabric store
I’ve been feeling completely overwhelmed lately. The entire house seems to be falling down around my ears and the list of things I should be working on seems endless! Think of how much I could accomplish with no kids under foot?!?
Then, last night, a still small voice whispered, “Be like Mary.”
Mary?
“Mary…seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word…Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (from Luke 10:39-42)
Really?!? Like Mary, Lord? Oh, I need to, I ought to, I’ve been so weary…
“Come unto me, all who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Yes, Lord. I will come!
I was almost giddy at the thought of uninterrupted time at Jesus’ feet, soaking in His word. I lingered a moment at horse camp, making sure that the kids were well acclimated. I considered staying until I had a chance to see them ride, but the invitation was waiting, and I could not resist. So I returned home and enjoyed 2 ½ hours at the feet of my Savior and then it was time to pick up the kids. I can’t remember the last time I spent so much time in prayer and searching out the Scriptures! It has been far too long and our whole household has suffered the consequences. But God’s mercy never comes to an end, His grace is abundant, and He is faithful to pour out His Spirit on all who will ask.
I had a wonderful time of confession and self-examination. God gave me several verses that I need to be applying to my life. I also prayed sincerely for each of my kids. I had been wanting to take the time to do a spiritual inventory as described in Jean Fleming’s book A Mother’s Heart. Finally, I took the time to do that and it was very productive. (If you’re not familiar with this book, check out CTdittmar’s review here).
I have a new passion for my kids and my role as wife, mother, and homemaker! I am committed to making some changes. I’m not a “Martha” by nature, but I had been behaving like one lately: distracted, worried, and bothered. I had been trying to accomplish works of the Spirit in my own flesh, through my own strength. It’s not possible! I need to be constantly abiding in Christ, relying on the Holy Spirit every minute of every day, and allowing God’s power to be perfected in my weakness. (II Corinthians 12:9)
After I picked the kids up, I talked with them and sought their forgiveness. I encouraged them to take some time at Jesus’ feet too, and shared with them the changes we’ll be making; more consistent time in prayer, Bible study, and memorizing Scripture.
The burden I was carrying is gone. The peace is back. I’m not irritable and frustrated anymore. The house is still a mess, and I still have a million things to do. My youngest daughter is still whining. But my sins are washed away and I am filled with the Spirit. Praise be to God!
If you’re struggling like I was, I would encourage you too to carve out some time to sit at Jesus’ feet! You may not have 2 ½ hours like I did, but any amount of time in His presence will strengthen and encourage you! Do not delay! Believe me; it’ll make you feel better than any manicure, pedicure, or facial ever could!
“They looked unto him and were radiant, and their faces will never be ashamed.” Psalm 34:5
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