my kids.

The beautiful Besines - she knows she is "A princess of God"

Goofballs

I feel as though most of my conversations nowadays revolve around my kids. But you know what? They're worth it. 

Sometimes I feel like a mom, as I am constantly taking out my phone and snapping pictures of my kids doing cute or funny things.

They are a lot of work and they can be frustrating. But when they are frustrating (aka not listening) I realize often it is my fault. Yes, they need to learn manners and how to listen to others, but I need to understand them well enough to make it possible for them to be successful. For example, shouting at them (which I can honestly say I haven't done very much) does them no good. They are probably going to ignore me, and I am going to get frustrated. Instead, giving them structure, guidelines, rules and limitations actually frees them because then they know what is expected of them. Whether I am counting down from 10, doing crazy motions for "clap once if you hear me" or making them sit down and line up again because they didn't do it well the first time, I am providing a way for them to be successful. Not all of them will take it, of course, but most will. Funny how it's kind of like what God does for us. He gives us guidelines and rules to give us FREEDOM. Counterintuitive? Maybe.

On the one hand of the gospel, the law is a heavy burden which crushes us since we are unable to keep it. It makes us painfully aware of our inadequacy and how much we need a Savior. But Jesus didn't come to destroy the law - he came to fulfill it. He did it perfectly and imputed righteousness to us. Praise God! 


But the guidelines and rules the Lord provides for us also give us freedom to live life the way he intended. He wants to protect us from things that would harm us, though we often do those things anyway. But this idea is how I view what I do with my kids. I give them structure, guidelines or rules so they have the freedom to enjoy the day and live together in peace. I know they won't always listen. I know they'll break the rules. But their failures don't make me want to beat them over the head with a book. Rather, it inclines my heart to show them grace while I lovingly correct. I would not be loving my kids well if I were to let them live in disobedience. Part of my job is to help them learn that their actions have consequences. I would not be teaching them well if I did not enforce those consequences. And believe me, it is not easy. When I see their big, beautiful eyes gazing up at me in sadness, it pains my heart to punish them. But I don't relent because they are cute. I correct them because I love them.

I love when my kids love each other

Sleepy Sebastian

Alan - future photographer? 

Bubbles at the NY Hall of Science

I have been with these kids every day from 8:30-5:00 for two weeks now. I know them pretty well, but I don't think I could learn all there is to know about them in a year. I got a chance to re-enter little girl world spending the day with Besines and Viviana at the NY Hall of Science. From drawing and writing on the train to wandering around the museum, I learned what captures their attention and what they find lovely. I learned what they enjoy and a little bit about where their priorities lie. I watched them have fun and I joined them! I ended the week dancing around with Besines, twirling and spinning and going crazy with our awesome dance moves. How good it is for my soul to dance and dance with my beautiful Besines!

Week 2 is done. Right now, it looks like things are on the upswing for Miss Bethany. The first week was by no means disastrous, but it was rough - as many beginnings are. The second week, though not without its frustrations, was a lot smoother. I'm learning a lot through my teaching. I'm learning how to lesson plan for kindergarteners on the job and how to best love them. Praise the Lord for my kids.

Gotcha!

Lovable little Alan

The girls and I had a blessed, restful weekend. We got a chance to get some awesome Italian food from Eataly on Saturday. Focaccia bread in hand, we walked across the street and ate on the steps of a monument in the park.


Friends, the Lord is faithful. My prayer this week is my desire for him to continue to chisel my heart, no matter how painful the process. He has enabled my affections for Jesus and his bride, the church. I pray also for my team and co-workers this week, that we will stay rooted in his gospel of grace.


Mark 10:45 is a beautiful reminder of what our Savior came to do. As he served, I also desire to serve.


May his grace and unfailing love fill your hearts.