Come follow me.

In the past I've read the following scriptures and thought, "It is impossible for people to be so good and so un-good at the same time." Paul's words can be baffling...

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and I have not charity, I am become as a sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

And though I have the gift of prophesy, and understanding all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing." (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)

Upon pondering charity, defining it as "the pure love of Christ" I have had an epiphany. Part of charity is stopping everything to love and bless little children. This practice was a HUGE part of Christ's ministry.

I rewrote these passages for myself, to help in my process of recognition and repentance...

"I give fine lessons at church- speaking with eloquence and inspiration from the spirit. I lecture my children, teaching them many truths of kindness and Godly things. But I have not charity. So the words mean nothing to them. My children cannot hear me. My words are as the hypocrites.

I can feel the Holy Ghost in my heart and I know the things I am prompted to do. I listen to the words of the modern-day Prophet and Apostles and I understand their sayings. My mind has been expanded through study and prayer. My faith is nearly a knowledge in many areas of the gospel- so greatly I believe. But I cannot set my selfish pursuits aside to be still with my children. I do not show them the love and attention that Christ would if He were here. So all the faith is not changing me. Still I am nothing, and what's worse is that I know better.

I cook dinner for many in need, including the fatherless and widowed and faithful servants of the Lord. I share everything I can; my time and my talents, with everyone I can. I give everything- but not really. Because I give to prove that I will do what the Lord asks, but am I wise enough to be what the Lord asks?"

This may seem bleak.

But in actuality these realizations have given me so much hope! I know what I'm to do- and more specifically what I'm to be! I know that my messy house is just going to have to stay messy and that my dreams for the future really need to wait their turn.

For the first time in a while I feel excited about the day ahead.

Thanks be to the Savoir of the world, who extends His arm and beckons to us...

Come follow me.

Comments

Karen said…
Thank you for the epiphany. It gives me something to work on, too. It's a great way to look at the scripture and see specific ways to be a better mom-- and person.
Gratiela said…
in romanian, my language, the translation of this verse states "love" instead of "charity". I guess it does make a lot more sense now to me, and maybe to you too :)