I needed a reminder this morning, so I thought I’d remind you too–all too often I miss life!
Aren’t we usually waiting for something? The next activity, the next appointment, the next break? And we have this false idea that life is a certain kind of moment or event.
But most of life is composed of ordinary moments. How often do I not only miss those, but even ruin them? If I’m too busy preparing for the next thing, then it’s easy to get interrupted in the now. And interruptions cause frustrations; and frustrations cause words and attitudes that do not reflect the kindness of God.
What if stopping to tie a shoe–for the 6th time, was something I saw, not as an interruption, but an opportunity to stop what I’m doing, smile at my little one, and while I’m tying, speak into his heart: “I hope you know how glad I am that you live here.”
Or a potty training moment was seen as a privilege, sharing a milestone in my child’s life–something not everyone gets to do.
What if all those “interruptions” are not interruptions at all, but God’s divine appointments in the ordinary, to test my heart, to see if my treasure is where it should be?
How many smiles are left “unsmiled“? How many sunsets left unshared? How many hurt feelings left unsoothed? Hugs left unhugged? Questions left unanswered?
I’ve said it before, but Jesus’ last “spectacular” act, was anything but spectacular. But spectacular does not equal important. “Wash each other’s feet.” Do the small things. Willingly. Happily. With a heart of love.
Oh that I would remember that as I pour myself into this Mother Work!
“In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul.” Psalm 94:19
11 comments
Yep…waiting for things to happen. I was just thinking this morning how much time I lose on days we need to be somewhere else at a specific time. There’s not only the time the out-of-home activity itself takes, but the transition time to get out the door, and to reorient once we get back home. Not to mention that I don’t fully engage during the time I *am* at home, when I’ve got to watch the clock to make sure we aren’t late to the thing that needs doing at its designated time.
Either I or one child or another have such activities most Mondays, most Wednesdays, some Thursdays and some Fridays. So Tuesday (today!) is the one weekday we’re guaranteed a day free from outside commitments that have a specific time frame. The perfect day to just let things flow at home.
And what do I hear myself saying to my 10-year-old this morning when he’s slow to finish something he’s started? “Hurry up!” Groan. Old habits die hard.
You were not the only one who needed the reminder today. 😉
Thank you, Kelly! I, too, needed this good and true reminder.
Oh my gosh!!! That’s so weird that you just posted this–I was thinking about this just yesterday, and decided to make some changes in my life to enjoy the “little moments” of life more! The timing is just soo cool! 🙂 I’m actually starting a photography project to capture the everyday beauty & joy of m y ordinary, mundane life. Thanks for this post! I may quote you, if you don’t mind! 🙂
That’s really neat, Chelsea. No, I don’t mind.
Good words, Kelly!
~Heidi
Kelly,
Thank you for the encouragement this morning. What perfect timing! I was just feeling that I am always looking for the next big thing. I love how you changed your mindset and focus more on love and less on tasks.
So glad it was a blessing to you. Almost always, it’s our mindset that hinders us.
This is so true. I’ve been studying 1 Peter with some friends of mine, and today we looked closer at the part in chapter 3, verse 7 that mentions the possibility of prayers being hindered. The attitude of our heart, and the actions that spring forth from that mindset, can hinder our prayers! Do we even think of that?
Sadly, no we don’t, C.
I was just thinking as I was reading this that I am so glad I treasured the times with my children when they were little. We have six ranging from 30 down to 16. The time flies people! Make the most of it!! Treasuring times still with my two teens!! They will honestly forget most of the mistakes you make and remember the most the treasured ones!
I really like reading through a post that can make men and women think. Also, thank you for allowing me to comment!