2.29.2008

"Children are a gift..."

We just returned from dinner at a young widower's home. He has two young adult boys, but he just couldn't get over Cole. He even apologized for not being able to take his eyes off of him. I think he had the best time just being around Cole.

When he wasn't watching Cole, he was talking about his wife. It was clear how much he missed her. Then when I put the two topics of the night together, I realize to what degree this proves what the psalmist was talking about in chapter 127: "Children are a blessing and a gift from the Lord." This man needs some bright spots in his days. I'm sure his children and his Christian family bring him joy, but what joy he had in being able to spend time with a child tonight!

All this brings me to a conclusion. As often as I thank God for the gift of Cole, I have no idea what a true gift and blessing he is. As often as I try to think of things to do for people who are lonely or hurting, for the last 18 months I have been sitting on a gold mine. This sweet boy who brings such joy to me has the ability to bring joy to people when I have no idea what to do to brighten their lives. Why am I not putting this gift to use?

So I'm going to challenge myself and I'd love if you mommies and daddies who are reading would join me: I'm going to use this wonderful gift that God has blessed me with less selfishly. There are so many people who would love to spend some time with a child, and so often I am keeping him to myself! So each week I'm going to try to identify someone who may be lonely or sad or just missing having little ones around and let Cole bring some joy to his/her life. What a nice way to use this precious gift God has given me.

Maybe you're already doing this, but if you're not, will you? Maybe you can't do it once a week. Maybe you can only try for once every couple of weeks or once a month, but in some way, share the gift of your children with others. They're too precious not to.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

That's why Cole should be coming to Italy!!!

missbuss said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Children are such a wonderful gift! And to those of us that have yet to know what it's like to be a mommy or daddy, being around children is such a joy because it's a glipse into the excitement of things that will potentially come! :)

Deaton, party of 5 said...

How SWEET is that story and such a wonderful reminder to share our children with those who need a smile and laugh! They have such JOY in everything.

Valerie said...

Great post! Thank you for the reminder. I'm going to take your advice this week.

Lydia & Riley Jane's Mom said...

You always say things so well. I think you should consider doing a Christian Mommy magazine (you have a real talent!).
Thanks for this recommendation, I will try the challenge this week.

Teresa Kimbel said...

You are such a sweet mommy. I am so glad you're where you are right now with Gilbert and Cole. God is blessing you in so many ways with family. Isn't God's timing perfect?!? I want you to know I am reading your blog and even created mine to be like yours. Please pray for GWP fervently right now and know we miss you, Gilbert and Cole so, so, so, so much. Love you, Teresa

Terri said...

Recently Allison sent a sunshine card to sweet Doris S. at church. Allison is allowed to color on the sunshine cards, then we send them to elderly or others who need some sunshine. I didn't know the impact. Ms. Doris found us the next week and explained that she had had an awful week - her garage door had broken, her heat pump had gone out and one more thing that I can't remember. She said the card was her bright spot of the week. Since then she has asked Allison for more drawings, seeks us out at church and Allison has made her a few pics just because. I love that you sharing your sweet boy with older members. Fantastic!