The secrets and deep emotions shared during the goodnight hours in which a the soul of a child is tender and open; the comfort of warm, homemade food n the early evening as ideas are shared and discussed and prayers and devotions given; the laughter, stories, advice offered in the midst of washing dishes together; the heroic and riveting stories read aloud together that establish common patterns of morality, values and dreams in the comfort of the blazing hearth, mugs of steaming hot chocolate and squishing against each other on a den couch—these are those heavenly things, which are food to the soul and nourishment to the mind and conscience of a child fully awake to all that is important in life.
There is no computer, television, software or textbook that can pass on such passion, love and motivation.
It is indeed the personal touch of a mother’s heart that creates grand civility, deep affection, care, and commitment to the foundations of a family. When the invisible strings of a mother’s heart are tied to the hearts of her children through loving sacrifice and nurture, the stability and foundations of a nation become secure and stable.
A mother, living well in her God-ordained role, is of great beauty and inestimable value to the future history of any generation.
Her impact is irreplaceable and necessary to the spiritual formation of children who will be the future adults of the next generation. Fun, comfort, humor, graciousness, spiritual passion, compassion for the lost, hospitality, chores, meals, training, life-giving words, hours and hours of listening and playing and praying and reading—all are parts of the mosaic in the process of soul development.
So, though the weariness of the busyness and celebration of Christmas is still upon our hearts and felt in our bodies,
the Spirit and vision of His life in ours will keep us going--
the refocusing on His great call will fuel our commitments to keep going, to keep loving and to keep believing. Taking time with Him this morning has fueled my own soul with new excitement. May He grace you all with His encouragement--right where you are, in whatever season--to know that it really matters. Grace and peace and rest be yours in the days ahead!