JP began pleading with me to watched more television before he even finished his shower. "Mom! Come here, please! I need to ask you a question.." I didn't bother going back into the bathroom after the second time. "Please let me watch just one more show!" He would scream. His question never changed.
I didn't want to ignore him. But, I had already given my answer. I wasn't trying to be mean, I just know what's best for him. I know how much sleep he needs in order to be productive in school. He turned off the water, dried himself off and brushed his teeth. I told him to tell everyone night and meet me in the bedroom. I could hear him stomping through the house. By the time he reached the bedroom though, he smiled at me. That was odd, given how mad he was. "JP, I like your smile. Are you not mad at me anymore?" I asked.
There was a profound message for me in his response. "Mommy, I was so mad because you wouldn't let me watch television or play on my iPad, but God changed my heart so now I have a better attitude."
And this "just happened" to be our devotion before bed:
"You don't like it when your plans are messed with. You had a goal in mind, but I said, 'Not now.' When you don't get to do what you want, you feel like stomping your foot and yelling. But instead you get angry. I want you to let that frustration out -- to me. I'll understand, and I'll help you sort through it..."
I know I do not like to have my plans messed with. My plans have blown up in my face! I am learning the hard way that God isn't always going to change my circumstances. And when that's the case, I need to be more like my son. I need to allow God to change ME!
Oh how I love my child.
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