Kids & Parenting

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A few years ago, over the Christmas holidays, my son, Isaac, was in a play at our church. We almost couldn’t believe our ears when we heard he had a speaking part. The thought of him having a major part in the musical was exciting, but also a little scary. I was nervous for him, but didn’t get to practice with him and didn’t really know what all he was to say. I sat in the audience that night prepared for anything but knowing that he was my son, and that I would love him no matter what he did or said when his time came.

My heart began to pound as I saw him come up to the microphone. I prayed silently to just let him get through it and reminded myself to praise him regardless of the performance. What a shock when out of my nine-year-old little boy came a perfect, mature and most of all clear speaking voice.

Tears stung in my eyes as I listened to his lines and heard the other children sing the name of Jesus on his cue. Obviously, I had underestimated my son. I was so proud, yet shocked; I almost couldn’t believe what was happening.

That night was one of the proudest moments of my life. Besides the children’s wonderful performance and the beauty of the Christmas spirit everyone felt, I knew my son had not only pleased me but also ministered to other people. I will always remember that night.

Lately, I’ve been wondering if God feels the same way about us. I wonder if he is sometimes sitting in heaven, on the edge of His throne waiting to see if we will do our best. I don’t believe He ever underestimates us, but that we underestimate ourselves. I can just picture the angels leaning over His shoulder asking, “We saw you give her the strength to carry through, did she find it, did she show a little piece of your glory down on the earth?”

My hope is to always make my Father proud and yet I know He will always love me no matter how bad my performance in life may be. I do believe, though, that His light burns a little brighter in me when I do my best to delight him.

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