Lessons from My Child

My sweet baby has been sick all weekend, causing us to stay home from church yesterday since they don’t allow kids with runny noses in the nursery.  Despite the fact that her nose is constantly dripping and her head stuffy, Hannah has still been the sweetest baby, never allowing her cold to affect her attitude in any way.  She still has a smile for Mommy, a sloppy kiss for Daddy, and an affectionate pat (or pull) for the dog.

I have to admit that she has put me in my place!  When I am sick, my entire personality changes.  I am grumpy, hard to get along with, and pretty mopey.  Don’t ask me to go about my day as normal because I do NOT feel well!  My husband tries his best to take care of me when I’m sick, but I’m not sure that I am always appreciative of his efforts.

Hannah is different, though.  Her job is to play, and play is what she did – even though she wasn’t feeling her best.  When Mommy had a chance to snuggle with her, she was immediately appreciative of any cuddle time.  When Daddy needed to rest, she lay quietly next to him.  My seven-month-old went about her normal day just as though she were 100 percent healthy!

Children are certainly a reminder of God’s grace.  The Bible is very clear about how God perceives children.  In fact, he admonishes us to become more like them!   Matthew 18:3 says, “And he said: ‘I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.'”  Every time I watch Hannah, I am reminded of this verse and wish that I could be more like my child.  Her sweetness is a constant reminder to me to keep my own attitude in check.

Watch your children closely today.  What about them fills you with awe?  Do you wish you had their sweet innocence?  Stop for a moment today and say a special prayer for your children.  Remember that they are a blessing from God – even if you are having a rough day with them!