I found out a little tid-bit after a fun-filled day at the beach yesterday. Asians boys can get a sunburn. I guess I've known this all along but we've been blessed that none of our boys has gotten too burnt over the years. However, yesterday's marathon beach trip proved that it is possible, and one of our little guys is hurting today. He's been miserable and pitiful all day.
Since he has slept most of the afternoon, I asked one of his brothers to help him out a bit. My boys alternate days unloading the dishwasher so I asked the well kid to switch days with the hurting kid. Honestly, I expected him to be flooded with compassion and jump on the chance to bless his brother, but I was sadly disappointed. He quickly rejected the idea and walked away. I was shocked that he had missed an opportunity to bless his brother. As I began to get angry, I prepared my rapid-fire speech on serving others that included such statements as "Didn't I teach you better than this?" and "Are you kidding me?" I was tightening my seat belt from the top of my soapbox and preparing for a lecture when God stopped me in my tracks. He reminded me of all the opportunities that I miss on a daily basis. The times when I fail to extend grace to my husband or fail to show patience to my boys. He reminded me of the times when He has asked me to bless someone, but I chose not to because I was too busy or tired. My heart melted for my son as I felt the love God extends to us when He sees us struggling to build our character. It can not be easy for God to see us reject his perfect plan and fail daily. But, as all parents know, it is a part of growing and learning. So, I will extend grace to him this time because God told me to. I will wait and pray. Pray for God to convict his heart. Pray for the right opportunity to talk to him about this at a later time. I will pray for his future and the wife he will have some day. And, I'll thank God for the mercy He extends to us daily as we try to figure out this parenting thing.
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About MarcyProud wife and momma of a clan of boys. Life is busy and chaotic, but not dull! I love my life. Archives |