Family—A Wonderful Plan

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Psalm 127:3

I have three kids. Two of them are my own. I love my stepdaughter, and I count her, too. They’re precious. Now, there have been days when thankfulness for them hasn’t flown automatically from my heart to God’s or to the kids. Can you relate?

Right now, Ray is impatient for his seasonal job at a nursery to begin. He calls me every morning, usually interrupting as I say hello: “I’ve missed three days this week!” I remind him of his start date, then I change the subject, or at least I try. That’s the way it is with my son, who has special needs. Sometimes no amount of convincing works. I am thankful that this will be Ray’s ninth year working part-time at the nursery. A real job in the community isn’t easy to come by for people like Ray. The rest of the year he puts together parts for garbage disposals at a sheltered workshop. He likes that too.

Kellyn is a pistol, always has been. I love her just the way the Lord created her. She’s employed in logistics, a perfect fit. She and Robert have a son who is 21 (already?) and a daughter in high school. Grans are great!

Aimee gave Steve and me two grans—a grandson who is learning new skills in a program for high school graduates, and a granddaughter who is in high school. We’re proud of them and appreciate their folks’ loving care and hard work providing for them.

We love our kids and their families and count our blessings ton by ton. Our hearts and photo albums overflow with cherished memories.

If you’re not a mom, I hope you connect with nieces and nephews or neighbor kids. There are likely kids to fill your cup at your church. Children’s church gives me chances to spend time with kids, teaching them that Jesus loves them.

Maybe church isn’t your thing. Foster kids are aching for parents, and boys’ and girls’ clubs always need volunteers.  I could go on about vacation Bible school as well as soccer and baseball teams. Anyone can be like a mom to someone.

Thank You, Lord for my mom. She cared for my seven siblings and me better than most moms care for one or two children. I miss Mom and wish I could spend the day with her this Sunday. Instead, I’ll take time to look at photo albums and reminisce for a while. I’m happy to be part of a loving family.

What a wonderful Creator God is! Families were His idea, and I’m grateful for mine. Enjoy your Mother’s Day however and with whomever you spend it.