My husband and I have a standing joke around our home. When I am frustrated or overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, he will often smile and say, “You’re livin’ your dream.” Of course I often want to argue back, but in a very real way, he is right. I have always wanted to be a mother. God placed on my heart long ago, as a little girl, that calling; and I have always recognized the value of motherhood.
There are many times; however, when I lose sight of the dream. I feel as if everything I do is a big burden. I feel put upon and smothered. “If I have to wipe one more nose or answer one more question…”, I moan. Then I read sympathetic blog posts describing what a sacrifice motherhood is and what saints mothers are because we bear up under such hardships- a real martyr complex.
But then I am convicted by husband’s joking words. This is my dream and my calling. My children are blessings from the Lord, not burdens.
Psalm 127:3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him.
Did you see that? Children are a reward! And as parents, and mothers particularly, we have a high calling to teach and train these rewards.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
We have the privilege of having these blessings for such a short time. My oldest child just turned ten, and it seems as if only yesterday she was born. All too soon, my chance to teach and train her in the ways of the Lord will be gone!
So, I will remind myself each day that I am living my dream. And I am fulfilling God’s calling in my life when I value these children He has given me and teach them His ways. I will strive to not live life like an overburdened martyr, but I will rejoice in the tasks I have, knowing this season of life is short and sweet, and making the most of the opportunity I have.