Greetings Prayer Warriors,
Only with time do we realize that our children are not ours, but the Lord’s. They are a gift, and we are to be their earthly shepherds. This is a huge responsibility if we contemplate the role of a good shepherd, which is to nurture them and lead them to Christ. It would be too easy to focus on all the ways we have failed, but the point is to not rely on our own strengths, but to surrender ourselves to the Lord. We can never succeed without His help. Reaching that point of understanding however, can take decades.
Those who err in spirit shall acquire understanding, those who find fault shall receive instruction. Isaiah 29:24
Our journey is one from pride to humility. One where we come to understand our absolute powerlessness and total reliance on God. It is a wonderful awakening, bringing us to a new life. Yet we yearn for the good of our children who often wander on paths we wish we could have blocked. If we pause to contemplate, is this not exactly how our heavenly Father must feel when we choose wayward paths? Are we somehow being drawn into the heart of our Father, so that we may learn how best to parent, with patience, unconditional love, and mercy?
I will heal their apostasy, I will love them freely; for my anger is turned away from them. Hosea 14:4
In our powerlessness, we come to understand that our power lies in our prayer.
Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Philippians 4:6
Lord, we give to you our children, whether they be young or adults. Their choices may not have aligned with your will, but in your goodness, give them the grace to change course. Hear our humble prayers and gather them collectively for the good of all of our children. You love them even more than we are capable of! Guide them on the path to life everlasting. Amen!
Those who pray have hope. Those who pray little are in great danger. Those who do not pray are lost. -St. Padre Pio
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Prayer is the answer. Pass it on!
