To All the Moms In the New Year

When I was younger, back before I had kids, I thought that I would have life figured out by the time I reached my 30's. Well, the 30's have been here for awhile, parenthood has happened, and the idea of having it all together? It's out the window. The ability to even FEEL like I'm put together? It's gone.

But I've figured something out about myself. See, I always compare myself to other people, and as the Bible states, this is not wise. I know that some people only dream of the things I have, but it's easy to forget sometimes. One of my friends dresses her children in color-coordinating outfits all the time, and her entire family always looks as if they're about to get their picture taken. Professionally. Nothing against her, but who has time for that? Other friends always show up to church on time on Sunday mornings with perfect-looking, well-behaved children, while I arrive late, feeling like I just wrestled 6 alligators in the mud. I didn't even notice that one of my children has socks on that don't match his outfit, another one did not get his hair combed, and who knows if they all got their teeth brushed? They've been fighting all morning, and one of the lovable little angels has just thrown a fit and informed me that I am the worst parent ever. And you know what? I feel like the worst parent ever. The last year has been stressful, I've taken it out on my kids, everything is out of sync, and I feel old, useless, and worn-out. Like my time is past. Like I don't measure up. My hair is gray and I've just noticed how pronounced my crow's feet are becoming. Having it all put together in my 30's? Nah. Ain't gonna happen.

Does anyone else ever feel this way? Do you know what? God is a parent, too. He knows how you feel. His children always show up late and messy. When He could feel embarrassed, He loves us anyway. He's had countless children fight, argue with Him, and basically tell Him that He's the worst parent ever. But He remains calm and loves us through it. And He knows you're needed. He has a special purpose for you. Just think about how important the job of raising up the next generation really is. Where would our kids be without us? Where would we be without our Father?

The new year lies out before us...a fresh and perfectly clean slate. And His mercies are new, just like they are each morning. So get out there and make your mark on this new year like snow angels in freshly fallen snow. And when things start to look grayish-brown and melty and mistakes are made, remember.....the best Parent of all time has got your back. You do make a difference. And someday, when everything is revealed, you'll be amazed at the impact you've made in the lives around you.

"Favor is deceitful and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth The Lord, she shall be praised." Proverbs 31:30.