The Big Picture: Finding Purpose in Motherhood

                                                                                                                                 By Olivia Brinker

“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7

I am a young mom of three kids. Those three kids came quickly with only three years between the first and the last. I had always dreamt of being a mom and, even before I was committed to the Lord, I always knew Jesus would be a part of that picture. It came up on me so fast. What happened? When I get in bed for the night I am crowded by how much I failed myself and the Lord that day. My house is a disaster and I don’t even think I said the name of Jesus once in the presence of my kids. What was I doing all day? I feel like, most days, my main goal is just to make it through, just get it over with so I can sleep. Is this really all God has for me? Why does being a mom feel so unimportant?

I have searched countless articles, bible studies, and human advice for the perfect solution, a schedule perhaps. As a stay-at-home mom, I thought that my job was to make sure the dishes were done, laundry clean and put away, and dinner on the table by 5pm all while giving my kids love and attention and showing them the light of Christ. This list, though short, weighs about a thousand pounds when trying to put into action. The dirty dishes need to be put in the dishwasher, but the one year old wants to take them back out. The laundry needs folded, but the four year old wants to change into the dress I just hung up. I need to write this blog, but the three year old knows no better place to sit than on my lap. Nothing is getting done and my frustration is rising. When all I feel is anger, how am I supposed to show my kids how to love like Christ, serve like Christ, and live for Christ? It wasn’t until I listened to a podcast that I realized a change of heart and outlook is what I really needed.

God’s ultimate plan doesn’t involve an empty sink and a tidy house. My purpose is to raise kids who know and love Christ. Why am I putting such earthly tasks before showing my kids who God is? So, I’ve decided. I need to stop shoving my kids in front of the T.V. so that I can clean the house (or sit on my phone). If my kids are asking for my attention, put down that laundry basket and show them I am here for them just like God is for us.

This morning, my son reminded me how important my role is. He is one, so no words were spoken but his actions said it all. He whines a lot and, standing in front of me, he raises his hands begging to be held.  Doesn’t this look familiar? So many days my prayers are desperate with cries and my hands may not always be raised, but my heart is aching to be held by the Lord. He is always there with open arms. If nothing else, my role as a mother should look like that. My readiness to love and hold them could be the first time they experience the light of Christ. I urge you, fellow moms, be ready. Most of our daily tasks can wait, this time with our kids can’t.