Final day and reflection

Today was Day 12 and also the last day of 2017.

As we unveiled the 12th call for a service opportunity, I had a tinge of sadness but also a revelation. This 12 day extravaganza was really motivated by my desires. Sure, Tatum got into it because I was with her, but it was not “natural” for her to think of others the first part of the day and throughout.

But, is it any of our natural tendencies?

At times, more often than not, I was a tad frustrated that she was not more “into it” at the unveiling each morning. It was a picture of how God probably sees us when we don’t naturally go to Him or think of another above ourselves. He must command us and model it for us because you know what? We are selfish creatures and our nature is to be of and about ourselves.

Such is a child.

Was I to expect her to dance around each morning and beg me to do the this or that for him/her/them? No, in fact, most mornings, its “I’m hungry;” “My toe hurts;” “Mommy, this is wrong or that is wrong…” However, we would do a 180, and she would willfully and obediently do as we should. Be focused above and out. I think that is what God expects of us: “If you love me, you’ll obey what I command.” (John 14:15). He commands us, and the longer we are IN HIM and ABIDE IN HIM, the more NATURAL it shall become. Others-centered. Jesus-centered.

Serving others each and every day becomes more natural as time goes on, and it it becomes part of who you are. This is my prayer for my Tot. It all starts with “Seek ye first the kingdom of God (and all these things shall be given to you.” (Matt 6:33)…It all starts with looking up.

So today, we make

Gratitude jars….