Jun. 6, 2009 - Mothers Like the Son
"Christ perfectly knew all things that should befall him, yet undertook the work of our redemption, which strongly shows his love."
I've been struggling a lot with my attitude towards my kids and how they just don't seem to get how much effort I'm pouring into their education, their life, etc. . I expect their respect. I expect them to see how much work I'm doing, how much I have to do. Of course I have prayed that they will "get it", but I don't think that is in the works. I think the LORD wants to change me instead.
When I read this commentary from Matthew Henry this morning, it again reminded me that CHRIST knew that people would disrespect HIM, reject HIM, turn away from HIM in disgust, yet HE still pursued the best for us. HE didn't focus on the rejection/the not understanding; HE continued on in accomplishing the work set before HIM. This showed HIS love.
Therefore, I can choose to continue focusing on their disrespect or I can choose to focus on the task set before me - showing them the love of Christ through patience, perseverance, kindness, grace and mercy. I pray I would do so today, JESUS. Keep this in the forefront. It is SO VERY hard for me. I am a justice type of person; I lack grace and forgiveness with those in my own home. How can that be, LORD? How can I be so ready to bring the gavel down on those closet to me and yet easily hand out forgiveness to those outside my home?
My most frequent prayer: Change my heart, O GOD, make it ever true.