“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” – Mother Teresa
Our 500-square-feet of house is strewn with toys, books, crayons, art projects, misplaced snacks, and half-clean laundry that was used to build forts and dress up costumes before being safely tucked into their drawers in time. It’s bad. There’s no place to hide the mess. I often feel so exposed, drawing a straight line between the state of our house and my ability as a Mom.
It’s obvious to me, how much I must fail them.
But then I hear the words of the gospel, and I don’t recall stories of immaculate homes, with well-matched open shelving, everything tucked neatly in its place…a minimalist’s dream. My dream. Instead, I hear of people whose hearts (and priorities) were laid bare before God, whose sins were brought out in the open, who were met with love, grace, healing, and forgiveness when they saw the face of Jesus – when they learned who He was, and wanted His transformation. I hear Jesus, bidding Martha to “hit pause” on her to-do’s, to instead just sit and listen to what He had to say. I hear Jesus saying it’s OK to not have it all together. That’s why we need God.
Today I’m purposing to seek out my children’s hearts as we bake, cook, play, learn, clean + clash in our priorities and desires. As I work through my to-do’s, I want to stop and hear their stories, make space to create memories together outside of our daily tasks, and also teach them the value of discipline in following through and completing chores. I truly want a clean house. But as my husband often reminds me, it may not be very realistic in this season with very young kids…I don’t want to miss out on this unique season because I worked so hard at tidying the mess, rather than embracing it and owning it. I want to commit these desires and struggles it to the Lord, knowing that He loves me and my family so dearly. I want to be faithful in the small things.
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“God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27
Little Maui Family 