I've been studying Philippians for awhile and highlighting Scriptures I wanted to go back to and think on more.  This morning as I re-read chapter 2, this part stuck out to me . . .

"Do all things without grumbling or disputing, so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, chldren of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain."  Phil 2:14-15

Wow.  Paul sounds just like a homeschooling mom to me!  How often do we wonder . . .are we running and toiling in vain?  Are we doing a good job?  Are we done yet?!  Maybe it's like the kids in the car on vacation saying . . ."Are we there yet?"   He wants a reason to glory, as we do.  And are we not shepherding our children just as he did?

So what would be the indicator of his success--and ours?

"Do all things without grumbling or disputing . . ."

Uh oh.

If this is the litmus test, we ain't done yet!  There's nothing like children bickering to send me to my room in tears,  ready to throw in the towel and declare myself a mothering failure.  I think that's a common feeling among moms.  How about complaining?  Just a hint that my kids aren't happy or think someone (sometimes it's everyone!) has it easier/better than they do has about the same effect. 

Both of these happen with disappointing regularity at my house.  It's helpful to know that Paul dealt with the same thing.  Later in Philippians he urges two women to "live in harmony in the Lord," and asks his "true companion" to help them do so.  Jesus made harmony amongst brethren the main point of His high priestly prayer in John 17 (remember the disciples' fighting over who's on first?)  And I suppose the vast array of denominations around the world is a testimony to our inability to always get along.

If we aren't done yet, at least we're in good company.