He has a 102 degree fever, an ear infection, and an incessant cough. We had to miss church, which absolutely frustrates me. I know my children are my ministry, and the ones to which God will hold me accountable for first, but it still upsets me when I can't be at church with the students. I made the mistake once when Parker was little of bringing him to church despite an ear infection. I was torn between mothering and ministering, and I chose the latter. Our then Pastor's wife was working in the nursery and she pulled me out of service and gave me the most liberating correction ever : "Bethany. You are crazy. Take this child home and don't come back until he is better. These students can have another teacher for one day, but your child can't get another mom today."
That thought had never crossed my mind. I used to feel guilt when my motherhood called me to be away from ministry, but I think I am realizing the whole "seasons" concept. For this season in my life I am raising toddlers. This means life is unpredictable and I, the perfectionist, have to be okay with that.
6 comments:
Jason and I were taught by Doug (christian counselor who was once a pastor) that Family is first before anything else (besides God and your marriage). Pastor Ross preached on families last night, Jason said it was really good. I know God will honor you having your priorites right. Also, Parker looks super tall in that picture you posted...Blake can't wait to spend the weekend with the boys!
Yes, I also hate missing church. When I get sick I still want to go to church, buth for me I know pushing myself only makes me worse. I have learned the hard way. So now I stay home when I know I should. It is very hard to put family before ministry sometimes, but it is the most important. (I also had to do that with Niki and Jaime) Even though they were not my own children...God had given me them for 2 months. That meant for that time I was their mother and had they were my family.
You are a great mom and your kids will thank you!
Don't ever, ever, ever feel bad for being at home with with kids when they're sick and you have to miss church, youth are some event. Life goes on whether we are there or not and our children need us more than anyone right now. Always remember, you are a mom to those boys before you are a mentor/teacher to the teenagers.
You are great at being a mother and a minister to the students! I admire your dedication to both. I hope he feels better!
You're a great Mom, Parker needed you yesterday! Hope he feels better!
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