After a long day of mothering, I look at old photos of my children. It helps me to remember days past that presented challenges we no longer face.
Behind the smiles and the cuteness are memories I have of sleepless nights, temper tantrums, and long days that seemed to suck the life out of me.
Raising children is no easy task.
I am encouraged to remember that we have overcome many hard things in our past. This difficult day, with its uphill climb through bad attitudes, impatience, and confusing emotions, is no different.
Then I think about tomorrow, and scriptures like this one:
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.
Rescue me from my enemies, O Lord, for I hide myself in you.
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God;
may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.
I press my cares and worries into His capable hands and my soul groans from the relief of the weight.
We are meant to steward our children, not carry the full responsibility for their very souls; that burden was purchased long ago by a Love greater than the love any mother has ever held.
I don’t only see the past in those photos. I see that great Love that carried us through the long days and nights, and carries us on still, to the level ground of a heavenly home.
I lay down my weary head and wait with hope for tomorrow, when we will be one step closer to Him.
