"Greater love has no one than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13
Recently I received a comment on one of my blogs that has really come to my mind several times during the past days.
"I read Sarah’s blog. As I was reading about the Clarkson family ways, it was like a light went off in my mind. Listening to Sarah describe how you all share your thoughts, musings, convictions, and interests made me realize a part of your discipling that I had yet to grasp. You shared yourself with your children in the deepest way. You must have shared your secret thoughts, hopes, dreams all along the way. The way one might share with her best friend. It’s more than just feeding, clothing, schooling, and praying for the them. The art of discipling is allowing them to see all. I have some how missed this ~ In my defense, I have three boys who often seem to not appreciate maybe when mom shares her heart. But in truth, they do. I know you’ve probably shared the heart of this idea multiple times in your books and seminars. I am a slow learner."
She touched the heart of the essence of real influence--loving with all of your heart. I often became discouraged in my own life as a m om--wondering if I was making a difference, wondering if amidst the fusses and messes, my loving words and persistent commitment to encouragement was really getting "in." Discouragement is part of the battle--yet, we become strong by practicing, exercising, if you will, love, patience, words of love, over and over again. We become what we practice.
Because of your love, giving of all of your life, and repeating loving words and encouragement, over and over again you are investing in the future voices your children will hear when they are adults.
Mother love, I believe, is a mere reflection of Jesus' love, God love--loving and sharing life and laying down our rights that the beloved might be served, built up, encouraged, inspired, changed.
So, today, my Mentoring Monday is about just that......
(and here is Sarah's link for those of you who missed it: thoroughlyalive.com )