What Children Really Need

There are moments of motherhood that are difficult. Life gets busy and the family suffers. We hurry, rush and snap at each other and wonder why everyone is so irritable.

And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.” Mark 9:36-37(ESV)

Then there are other moments. Sweet mama moments, when it feels like a little slice of heaven is looking right into my eyes. I see three sets of big blue eyes that love me unconditionally and see the beauty in simple things. I hear the squeals of delight when they finally understand a new concept. I enjoy the infectious laughter that spontaneously erupts at the dinner table and the silly dance moves that have only been practiced in the privacy of home.

Sometimes I get so busy with life that I miss the memorable moments. I want to remember the little faces my children make when they laugh, cry and sincerely listen. I want to remember the way their voice graduates beyond a toddler tone. I want to remember the things that bring simple delight. I want to know what they like and don’t like. I want to know who they call friends and why. I want to know what makes them feel insecure and what ignites confidence in their little minds.

Some days I forget to notice the things I truly want to remember. I want to be present when I am with my children. I want them to know that I am listening and that I am always there. It is so easy to get distracted. My smart phone is constantly vying for my attention, but God is tenderly telling me to limit my time and focus.

I often wonder what memories my children will remember and carry into their adult lives. Will it be the Christmas they got the one thing they prayed for all year long or the summer they finally learned to swim? Maybe their first iPod or guitar?

Here’s what God is teaching me this week:

Children don’t need presents. They need your presence.

This is something I am working on constantly and I know I need to improve. If you will join me in intentionally making eye contact, talking and being truly present with the people that call you mom, please LIKE, SHARE and COMMENT so others can join us too!

If you have a child who you want to give presence to today I would love to hear about it! How will you be intentional this week?

Love & Blessings,

Micah

Here’s where I am sharing this post this week.

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