Sacrificial giving...

...is there any other way?

I'm reminded of the story of the widow who gives only a little bit of money in the temple, but in the Lord's eyes, that is much. Jesus argues that the widow has given the most because the rich may have given from their surplus, and have not sacrificed anything, yet the widow has sacrificed greatly. She has given "even all her living", suggesting that she may not have money for food.

I could sit back and say, "I have a lot on my plate now. I have to focus on my family." Etc. Etc. Ad Nauseam. Me Me Me. This might be true, and yes, it has its place. But giving when I sacrifice something? Is much greater in the Lord's eyes. He appreciates me giving when it is convenient for me, or when it doesn't take that much sacrifice or energy. But when it takes all I've got? To the point when it seems impossible? It is greater in His eyes.

Grace

My almost 4 year old wrote the letter "S".

It was pretty good, if I say so myself. Looked like a "5".

"Aww man, it looks like a '5' " he said.

"No, that's good, honey, 'S's' are hard to do!" I said.

Which made me think: I need to give myself more grace.

For my almost four-year-old son to write the letter "S" is pretty darn good, if I say so myself.

To do what I've done the past three months with a new baby is pretty darn good if I say so myself.

Grace.

We don't know where people are in their lives. What they are thinking, what they are feeling. What they are going through, what challenges they face.

We need to extend mercy and grace and forgiveness and love....always.

But mostly us mamas? We need to extend grace to ourselves.

Give yourself a pat on the back, mamas. You're doing so well!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Slowing....

The story of the Good Samaritan was one that always stuck with me in childhood. How could someone leave a hurting man on the side of the road? And of course: I would never do that.

But as I get older, I realize that I am just as guilty of leaving people in need on the side of the road. How easy it is to get caught up in busy schedules, to where we are oblivious to those in need. I am guilty of putting "good things" before "great things". I bristle at interruptions. I bristle at the person God puts on my heart to minister to. I have a busy life myself.  I am guilty of putting priorities in the wrong place. Nothing on our agenda is reason enough to ignore the voice of God when He tells us to stop and help. 

This week many bloggers are encouraging us to slow down, inspired by Ann Kroeker's book Not So Fast: Slow Down Solutions for Busy Families. Here, too.

What is the purpose of slowing down? For me, it is what Aimee shared:

Real, meaningful, nurturing relationships. 

Slowing down enough to see what the Lord wants from us, because "His burden is light."

How can you "slow"? So that you can hear that "still, small voice"? So that you can be led appropriately? So you do not ignore that what the Lord has called you to do?

More on the introvert

Remember my post: My name is Andrea and I am an introvert ?

This is a wonderful addition to my thoughts--if you're interested.

New mamas

New mamas are some of the neediest people. Whether it is your first child, or your eighth child, I truly believe those first few months of having a new baby are some of the most challenging and pressure-filled months of adjustment for a mother.

Often times, new mamas are overlooked. Sure, after the birth, help and support is gladly offered. People wait in line to bring meals. But what happens when the "newness" wears off, and this tired, sore mama is expected to "go on" with her normal life activities? When her mother goes back home, and the father goes back to work? 

I have been in that place many times. (And most certainly are right now!!) And you have, too. Regardless of how your experience with a new baby was/is, I have put together a helpful list (from my perspective) on how to minister to a new mother. I truly believe new mothers are the "least of these" Jesus talks about.

1. Meals. Meals are so needed when the new mother is recovering from birth and adjusting to her baby the first week or so. But what about when the baby is two months old? A meal brought to a mother during this time is so very helpful. I can't tell you how freeing it is to know your dinner is ready after a long day (and night) with a young baby and all the other children to care for. Is there a mother you know who has a baby 2-3 months old? I guarantee she would love a meal right now.

2. Calls/emails. I don't know about you guys, but when I have a baby I am at home. All. The. Time. This is fine, it simplifies things. It helps the baby get used to life and mama too. It protects the baby from any germs he or she might get when you are out and about. But it also can be lonely. I don't have much time to call and "catch up" with my friends or schedule play dates or get togethers. I'm not saying I want to be out all day with friends, but just having someone actually call or email and say, "Hey, thinking about you--how are things going? Do you need anything?", makes a new mother feel connected at so vital of a time. Perhaps ask her if she wants to go get coffee. Offer to come and visit. Give her a call and speak words of encouragement. Just don't assume that "everything is ok" and  she "is just getting used to the baby.". These things may be true, and the new mother might even decline going out, but just knowing there is someone who is there and who cares during this precious time means so much.

3. Take her children. Sometimes a new mother needs a mental break. Why not offer to take one or some of her children one day? It allows her to have a slower day and to focus more on the new baby. It can help a new mother emotionally and mentally so very much.

4. Offer to come fold and put up laundry. Enough said?!

5. Bring her lunch. Why not make a special "mom's lunch" for the new mama, for her to enjoy just for herself? What a wonderful way for her to feel loved and appreciated--and so simple to do.

What about you? Are there any other ideas you have for a new mother? Remember--this is for those moms whose babies are older than the first 6 weeks, when all the "newness" has worn off.

Undone....

Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone. The wisdom in life consists in the elimination of non-essentials.
— Lin Yutang

Seeking quiet

"In my attempts to promote the comfort of my family, the quiet of my spirit has been disturbed. Some of this is doubtless owing to physical weakness; but, with every temptation, there is a way of escape; there is never any need to sin. Another thing I have suffered loss from--entering into the business of the day without seeking to have my spirit quieted and directed. So many things press upon me, this is sometimes neglected; shame to me that it should be so.

This is of great importance, to watch carefully--now I am so weak--not to over fatigue myself, because then I cannot contribute to the pleasure of others; and a placid face and a gentle tone will make my family more happy than anything else I can do for them. Our own will gets sadly into the performance of our duties sometimes.

~Elizabeth T. King

Related:
To nurture the loving life

For a chance to receive a book by Scot McKnight, please go and read this post: 
Did I Really Pray That?

Weekend reads

Happy first of October!! It's very chilly in these parts.
Can I share some wonderful reads with all you wonderful readers??These have blessed me lately:
Priorites: Things Unseen
The Ultimate Burnout Survival Guide I will be referring to this a lot. Great stuff.
Called to service Love in action, for our children. Can we let our own dreams and expectations die so that their unique calling can come to fruition? Long, but worth the read.
This I call to mind--therefore I have hope
A bath for baby An oldie but goodie. Revisiting this often to remind myself of my priorities.