Why are we not reading IT

Over dinner the other day, my daughter started asking me about things to come - such as having a sign before we can transact - things prior to the Second coming of Jesus.  As I probed a little more, I understood that she was trying to clarify with her classmate that while we know that His return is near, we cannot pin down to a specific date... For some reasons her friend was so certain Jesus will return in a couple of months.

They decided to ask the teacher - who is also a believer.  But the later was unsure and asked about her references.  When my daughter mentioned the Bible, the teacher was also unsure.  Her comment to me was: I didn't know people don't read the Bible.  Sadly, this is so true,

We take our God for granted... We go to Him when we need help, other times, we will only drop by and say 'Hi' and even so, we are distracted with the notifications from our phones or devices.  Is it a wonder why we do not lead transformed lives and make a difference in the world?  I am guilty too - how many times do I rush through Quiet Time to just have a 'check' that the duty is done for the day? How much of a day's time do I spend in prayer only? Really very disappointing.... Thank God for his patience to wait for us... This we shouldn't take for granted too... Life has to change... Priorities too...

Some things I got it right

A friend shared a link today on the 57 things great parents do to bring out the best in their children - this is Daniel Wong's blog.

57 things sounded mind bogglering!  In a time-starved world that I live in, I thought 10 is more than enough.  Thankfully the points are in bold, with descriptions follow thereafter.  As I scrolled down, several of them rang aloud to me.  The following are my own thoughts:

It takes a whole lot more effort to discipline, instill values in the children than it is to give in to them.  How many times was I tempted to choose the easier way out - especially after a long, battled day - the last thing I need is to come home to discipline my child.  Yet - if I give in the first time, the second time will be much harder to pull the child back to what is deemed right.  It is tiring - it still is, after all these years, but I must say my hot-tempered son is more ready to listen to reasoning these days.  True that he needs his space and time to internalize my unbending comments, and insistence on certain expectations, but I believe he knows in his heart that mommy meant well.  It is then a matter of him coming to terms. 

A second thing we are attempting to do is to come together once a week to read the Bible together as a family, and to reflect on what was mentioned, and their key takeaway points.  Thereafter, we will pray as a family.  This, too, requires effort on our part.  When the kids come in with 'black' faces and irritable / foul moods, we will still persevere.  I think it is shaping out quite well, and for that I am thankful.

Well, to me, whatever that I am experiencing now, helps to shape me to be a better mom too... and I am thankful for the ability to learn ever so regularly - these valuable life lessons.