This past week, I attended the Colorado Christian Writers Conference in beautiful Estes Park. I spent three days on the campus of the YMCA of the Rockies, which is surrounded by mountains (some of which were still snow-capped). My spirit was refreshed by the worship sessions there, and I loved getting to reconnect with old friends as well as make new ones. I especially enjoyed teaching my clinic and getting to know my students.
Even walking in between the buildings to get where I needed to be was a pleasure as I soaked in the beautiful scenery. Once, on my way to one particular building, I happened to notice two dandelions poking their heads up between some rocks. I thought they were pretty, so I stopped and took their picture, then continued into the building to teach my clinic.
When I came out an hour later, I looked for the dandelions again. They were still there, but one had closed up its beautiful yellow head. I realized that if I hadn’t taken the picture when I first saw them, I would have missed my chance.
Our children, too, are flowers that are only open some of the time. We can’t count on being able to connect with them or teach them any time we want. We have to do it when they’re open.
For example, our children tend to be most open to learning to love Jesus when they’re young. If we don’t make it a priority to introduce them to Him and teach them about Him while we can, we might miss the opportunity. That’s not to say that missing one opportunity will doom our children to a life without Christ. But when we consistently fail to make spiritual instruction a priority, we’re missing the chance to teach them while they’re open.
Likewise, there are moments in each day when we have the chance to connect with our children’s hearts. Yet often we’re too busy on Facebook or with some other pursuit to really stop and connect. Again, missing one opportunity won’t doom us to a bad relationship with our children or cause them to grow up feeling unloved. But missing those opportunities on a consistent basis means failing to pour love into their lives while we have the chance.
Precious mom, watch carefully for the times when your children are open. Ask God to open your eyes to see those times you might have missed otherwise. And then take action. Don’t miss the opportunity.
Do it while you can.
Ephesians 5:15-16—Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (NIV)