Greetings Prayer Warriors,
One of my coworkers was extremely stressed this week because her parents, who just moved from out of state to be near her, had some minor medical issues. At first I was perplexed at what seemed to me an overreaction, but when I stepped back, I realized that never having children (nor wanting them), she wasn’t used to sacrificial love. She was a first time parent to her parents and responded like any first time parent!!
Parenting is one of the hardest vocations on earth, yet also can be the most rewarding. It involves much sacrifice, and frequent denial of self for the good of the other. When parents are sacrificial in attending to the needs of their children, or grown children are sacrificial in attending to the needs of their elderly parents, they are reflecting Christ, whose love was kind, gentle, and unconditional. Christ came to give us an example and to show us the way. Not so that we would have a cushy life here, but that we might have eternal life.
I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly. John 10:10
When we are challenged to deny our own desires for the good of another, it is a gift, as the journey strengthens and purifies us. We will always fall short, but with the grace of God we can be renewed in perseverance and love.
He gives power to the faint, abundant strength to the weak. Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall, they that hope in the LORD will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:29-31
Lord, as we all labor in these earthly pastures, we ask for special graces for parents, and those who care for them. When we are fearful of what lies ahead, may we contemplate your time in the Garden of Gethsemane, and like you, pray to the Father to have the courage and strength to do His Holy Will. When what we do for others isn’t appreciated, but instead taken for granted, may we not complain about the scourge of unappreciation but instead contemplate how little appreciation you receive. When our position of authority is disregarded and mocked, and as our hearts are pierced, may we meditate on your crown of thorns and what you endured for us. When we are exhausted, may we unite ourselves with you as you carried the cross of our sins. And if we find ourselves crucified socially, physically, or intellectually, may we turn toward you, knowing you have already won the battle through your death and resurrection. Father, strengthen us, and grant us the perseverance, disposition, and love necessary to expand your kingdom here on earth, especially within our families. Jesus, we trust in you!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Imitate Christ. Pray! Pass it on!
