“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 5:1-2, NIV
Paula’s day had gone from bad to worse. Her boss had dropped a large project on her at the end of the day. She had to go grocery shopping to find a meal for supper, and her two-year-old chose that evening to have a meltdown in the middle of the store.
One of her daughters spilled chocolate milk in the backseat of the van, and another one unknowingly sat in it and now had stained her nice, new blue jeans.
When Paula got home, she unloaded the vehicle and put the groceries on the table. Then she went to her bedroom and closed the door to get some much needed alone time so she wouldn’t take out her frustrations on her kids.
After she was calm again, she came out of her bedroom and was surprised to find the house clean and the trash taken out. When she came into the kitchen, she saw the chores that were hers on the chart had been done. She smiled and thanked her kids for thinking of her.
When a loved one’s day goes awry, it’s easy to get irritated with them. But instead of adding fuel to the fire, respond with love and grace. Do a chore for them. Fix them a cup of tea. Offer to listen to a funny song together.
Prayer:
Lord, help me when a loved one is stressed to sense what they need. Show me how I can love and serve those living in my household. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
