We were rushing out of the house for the end-of-the-year testing required of homeschool children. One of my children slept late, leaving no time for either his breakfast or packing a snack for the day. I told him it was too bad he had not gotten up when called. The consequence for not planning enough time to eat and make his snack would be having to miss out on both.
We all got into the car and began the 30-minute route to the testing site. While driving the Holy Spirit said to me, “Be loving.” I wrestled in my mind between a punishment of natural consequences or having God’s grace. I asked the Lord what He wanted me to do.
Within a few minutes I pulled into a convenience store for gas and while inside paying, I grabbed my son’s favorite drink and snack. I went back to the car, telling myself to not give it to him with an angry attitude, but with the kindness the Lord would extend.
Getting into the car I said, “This snack is for you. You did not obey. In fact you were lazy and not prepared to eat breakfast or your snack today. But I love you and I never want you to go hungry, so I bought your favorite drink and snack for you. Do you know why I did this? Because this is an example of God’s grace. He gives us what we do not deserve. He loves us and I love you.”
This spoke volumes to my son as well as my other children in the car.
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About Rhonda Ellis
Rhonda Ellis is a wife of 29 years, a homeschooling mom to 6, a blogger, writer, speaker. Her passion is mentoring women in ways that impact hearts and homes for Christ. Grab a cup of coffee or a Diet Coke (water is allowed these days too) and be a "back porch" friend with her.Come read her blog at cultivatingahome.com. It's a great place to laugh, cry, share friendships and transparent hearts while sharing deep conversations about our journey with the Lord. You can also join her facebook page: www.facebook.com/TheRhondaEllis
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