For the first time this summer, three of my grandchildren attended Vacation Bible School at my church. This is the same VBS ministry that their mother was part of when she was their age. It gives me great joy to hear the boys sing the songs and tell what they learned during the week. I know their parents are teaching them about our faith at home, too. It is a blessing to see God's faithfulness to the next generation and to wear the crown of God's favor.
I wasn't always able to focus on the blessing ahead. There were times, as a young parent, that I grew weary of constant childrearing responsibilities. I wondered if our family would ever make it through a whole week without someone crying...the kids or me. Some days, I worried that I said don't so much that my children would think that was their name. I believed then, as I do now, there are no low-maintenance children. Christian moms have the Holy Spirit and God's word to guide them, but they still have to apply themselves to the work. Then, there is the added worry that pastors' wives might have regarding the effect of church ministry on their family life.
These are all concerns, but I am here to say:
God loves you, mom.
He is faithful to complete the good work He began in you.
You are probably doing a better parenting job than you think you are.
It is worth the effort.
Keep doing what you know to be right even if you don't get the response you'd like.
Be hopeful for the future because it is full of reward.
I realize that not every pastor's wife has children or the prospect of grandchildren. Not every pastor's wife has offspring who are following the Lord and bringing her joy. I know this can be painful. Although God is not blessing you in the same way that He is blessing me (and vice versa), He is blessing you with His eternal love and favor. Abundantly. Furthermore, if you are part of His kingdom work, you are extending the faith to a thousand generations whether you are a mom or not.
"But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children's children, to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments. The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all." Psalm 103:17-19
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