What a Joy

While I feel that I'm often still trying to regain my footing as we progress into the new, unfamiliar territory of parenting teenagers, I'm becoming more and more aware of the unexpected blessings of this season of life. In days gone by, I'd somewhat lament the passing of time...the farewell to our "little" boys. And sadly, I kinda thought the best was over.

But I never understood or grasped how sweet these days could be.

Don't get me wrong. There are days I'm pulling my hair out. There are days when I'm discouraged by our boys' seeming inability "to get it." There are days I feel like banging my head against the wall as we confront the same issues over and over again. And then, of course, there are my inappropriate and sinful reactions to the boys' shortcomings. And once again, God is confronting the same issues in ME, over and over again.

But laced throughout all those less-than-stellar moments are little reasons for hope; little reminders from God that our boys ARE growing; little reminders that He is at work in them.

Just yesterday I was feeling burdened for friends who are hurting. My heart was feeling heavy as I longed to help them...to be there for them. Due to the many miles that separate us, though, this was impossible. So often I yearn to do something tangible...something in the flesh, forgetting that the first, best, and foremost thing I can do for them is to pray.

So as I was pouring out my heart in prayer, the sound of our oldest son practicing his bass filled the house. I recognized the song as "Mighty to Save," and before I knew it, my heart was singing along. Unbeknownst to our son, I settled in at the bottom of the stairs, listening and singing and praying. The words to the song penetrated my heart and filled me with hope. I was moved beyond words as I considered what was happening: how my son was ministering to my heart and pointing my eyes to Jesus. I made sure I told him that later, too.

Thank You, Father, for the joy and privilege of learning and growing with our three young men. Thank You for the ways you use each of them to direct my eyes and my focus to you. Continue the work of transformation You're doing in each of their lives...and transform their mom's heart, too.