GRACE

Grace. We’re all familiar with this word, aren’t we? As Christian women, we’re fully aware of the pardon we receive thanks to the sacrifice of Christ Jesus and His efforts on the Cross. We recognize the magnitude of such a gift…and what it means to us eternally. However, receiving grace is one thing. Giving it? That’s a whole other story. Especially when it comes to being a mom…especially when it comes to raising our kids. See, as a mother, I have the opportunity to extend grace multiple times a day. Like when my sweet son writes all over the television …

Share

Does Grace Show Stains?

  By Guest: Michelle Hawkins “Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the Lord, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow….” (Isaiah 1:16-18 NKJV) I had an idea of what I thought my two school-age boys would be wearing for Easter service. All white including shirt and pants. I cleaned them up, dressed them, and then commanded them to wait for me as I got ready myself.  I specifically said, “DO NOT GET DIRTY.” After a few minutes of hearing them whine–because I made them sit still on the couch until I called …

Share

How a Wiggles Movie Changed My Life

“Please, Mom? Pleeeease?” My daughter pleaded as she climbed into her car seat. Since buying our first minivan, I’d come to appreciate all its amenities but one—the built-in DVD player. That thing was a source of constant battle. Every time we boarded the van, my children asked to watch a movie. And every time I replied, no. Because good parents don’t let their children watch television in the car. My Perfect Parent Handbook has lots of rules like that. Good parents don’t buy sugary cereal. Good parents don’t let their children wear pajamas to the playground. Good parents have a …

Share

Mothering in Grace and Truth

“You just don’t understand children!” she stomped her foot as tears wet her eyelashes. My heart boiled hot and anger flashed, but no words flew out of my mouth. No angry tirades and somehow peace. . . Peace beyond me settled in my heart as my mind whirled. What do I do with that Lord? I prayed and pondered as I turned and said with an edge in my tone, “You will put on those clothes by the time I get back or there will be consequences.” As I left her to put on her church clothes a still small …

Share