As we prepare for our trip to Israel, it feels like there's just too much to do and not enough time to do it in. I keep trying to focus on the fact that in a few short weeks it'll all be done and we'll have some unforgettable memories to share. But today I'm reminded of forgiveness.
Lately I've had some really amazing conversations with some really amazing people in which God reminds me that I'm forgiven. I don't parent my children perfectly, my attitude towards my husband isn't always loving, my house isn't immaculately clean, dinner is often late (and sometimes doesn't taste that great), laundry waits until no one has clean underwear; I'm lazy, lacking self-control, a people-pleaser, impatient, prone to anger... the list goes on...
But at the very top of the list is "forgiven." Some days I like that it's there and other days I don't, but that doesn't change the fact that it's there: FORGIVEN.
On my nightstand sits a book titled Give them Grace: Dazzling Your Children with the Love of Jesus by Elyse Fitzpatrick and her daughter, Jessica Thompson. I've recommended a few books before on our blog, but I think EVERY Christian parent should read this book. I'm not even done with it, but have recommended it to several of my mom friends. It's convicting, yes, but has re-aligned my thinking not only in my parenting but in the rest of my life.
I want to be more willing to show my imperfections to other people, especially my husband and children. I want to be ready to ask forgiveness when I know I've sinned. Isn't that what the gospel is all about? We're sinners in need of a Savior. Our Savior is in the business of forgiving sinners who know that they are sinners in need of a Savior. No one has it all together, no matter how much it seems like they do. But when we sinners accept Jesus as Savior, it's not like all of a sudden we don't need grace anymore. We still need forgiveness. We are dependent on it.
Or at least we should be.
