Unlimited Patience

I say goodbye to my family and close the door most school mornings by 7:30.  And I sigh because by then, I feel like I've run a marathon.  It can seem so difficult to get everyone out the door. 

This morning was particularly difficult because Macy and I had a heated discussion about homework.  She has struggled a bit with forgetting to write down her assignments and bringing home homework.  This is not yet a problem, but I am trying to emphasize the importance of being responsible for your own work. It's easy for her to tell me "just copy Matt's for me."  I guess that's another benefit of being a twin. 

So as they left, I felt burdened.  I realized that instead of encouraging her to do the right thing, I had only torn her down even more.  I made her anxious about it and more self-conscious about approaching her teacher.  Boy, did I blow this one.

As I reached for my Bible, God showed me these verses: 

 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance:  Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners -- of whom I am the worst.  But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.  1 Timothy 1:15 - 16

 

He reminded me that in showing mercy to me, He equips me to do the same.  He tells me to use my shortcomings as an example to others, including Macy.  I know that I am not a perfect mother and that I will often fall short of unlimited patience, but to be reminded that that's okay was exactly what I needed to hear this morning.  God never fails to show me unlimited patience and it is because of Him that I am able to go to Macy this afternoon and share that grace with her.  And I can't wait for her to get here.