A servant heart

“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. John 13:14

Children can easily become the focus of well-intentioned mothers. Wanting to meet their needs, win their hearts, give affection, speak words of life, give the best input and instruction and lessons, and before the family knows it, the child is the center of life. Now, moms do need to return their hearts toward home. But, Christ, His kingdom and His work must always be the center of our lives.

Wow!  What a perspective!  I found this from "I take Joy", a blog that was introduced to me recently.  I love that God is changing my perspective.  How easy it is to get caught up in our children because we love them and want the best for them, but all of a sudden realize that we're not bringing out the best IN THEM! 

Throughout this pregnancy with #4, I have been in awe of the work of my Heavenly Father in our home.  I have seen His hand in my life and have just been in awe.  Tonight, as I thought of the hardship of not being able to lift my youngest daughter, Ella, I was also reminded of what a blessing this has been for my oldest, Luke.  Since I cannot lift Ella, Luke does.  And, he being big 5, feels even bigger and like Mommy's helper because he can lift her for me for her naps and even help her get in her carseat if we absolutely need to go somewhere.  I have seen such character develop in him through this.  Today, I noticed when a drink spilled, he ran, got napkins, and began cleaning the spill off the floor, without me even asking him to.  And, this has brought joy to Luke, (and me).  Instead of being totally focused on his own needs, he's more aware of the needs of his brother and sister, and mommy.  Today, he figured out he can get his own drink, but he decided to take it a little farther.  He decided that now he can get drinks for his brother too.  It makes him happy.  He lights up when he is serving others.  I have heard people say, "Poor Luke, he is having to help out so much right now."  But, I have a different perspective.  I know that Jesus said to serve and follow him in this way.  He served, we should too.  How easy it is to want to be served, but the joy comes in the serving others!  This, I want to teach my children!  And, oh, how I pray for a servant heart for me too!  Lord, let me serve them, but also teach them how to serve others, therefore pleasing You.