“And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5).
Are you a stay-at-home mom?
When my first child was born, my mother-in-law and my father both told me that I should consider not working outside the home. My husband supported them in this opinion and so, for the next 9 years, my children and my home were my world.
Those nine years were some of the best and some of the hardest years of my life. Two things stand out in my memory when I think about those years: loneliness and gratitude.
My two sons are grown men now. They are my favorite people. I miss them so much. I am so very grateful that I was the one who put them to bed at night, read them stories, took care of their colds and watched them play.
Loneliness was a struggle for me. It seemed that everyone else in our small town worked except for me. My husband was often on the road. In the winter my little house was isolated. I had to carry wood to heat it. Alone, I had to make the long evenings in front of the fire cheerful and not sad.
My life has moved on now. I work in a world-class city in a fancy office. I get my share of recognition and excitement, but nothing can ever replace those precious years with my little boys.
Memories are good things. I have no regrets.
If you are able to stay home with your children, you have a divine opportunity to love them and know them, and to impart to them God’s Word.
Realize what a vital job Jesus has trusted you with.
Kimberly Snider is a missionary to the Philippines.
From “Moments for Moms,” a free email subscription.
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