As the familiar phrase slid past my lips I slid a napkin across the table to my five-year-old. It was a well rehearsed routine. The same words and same actions repeated at least three times a day for 4 years now. At times I really wonder if Corban will go off to college still wiping his mouth on his shirt sleeve and wiping his hands on his shirt front.
The end of the meal drew near and I glanced at my son. Once again his shirt was smeared beyond repair and the napkin remained in pristine condition. Will he ever get it?
I dream of the day when Corban reaches over, takes that napkin and ACTUALLY USES IT for something besides a coaster. I am quite certain that at some point I am going to look up from my meal and see my son sitting there with a clean shirt, face, and hands--- and a dirty napkin. One day.
And so it is with myself. There are things in my life that God has been dealing with me about day after day, year after year. I begin to mentally check off the areas in my life that I know need attention and habits that I know need to be broken. And as I get ready to launch into 2014 I am determined to pick up my personal "napkin" and get rid of some of the mess in my life. I am determined to heed the gentle reminder of the Holy Ghost in my life and clean up areas that have long needed it.
I am so thankful that unlike myself God does not tire of reminding and correcting me. He is ever patient, slow to anger, and full of grace.
In dealing with my children, I desire to be like Him. In dealing with myself, I desire to heed His voice.
Lord, as I face this new year, I pray that your Holy Spirit would lead and guide me. That I may be kind and patient, slow to anger and full of grace with my children. That I would hear and obey your voice quickly and make needed changes in my life that will bring honor and glory to your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.
