The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. Psalm 16:5
This weekend we had a delightful Sunday, where eventhough one child was sick in my arms, the others provided room for my nurturing and happily played for hours in the yard. The summer has been full of being “fixers”, handymen and outdoor chefs. I love seeing the creativity of my kids. My daughter started serving us up plates of sandwiches and salads that she had concocted from the various foliage around our home. Her little masterpiece was the chosen portion for the afternoon and it was worthy of a photo.
I wish I could remember these days and relish them more than the days where the kids are at odds with me and their siblings. It seems the focus is always on the struggle and I forget to enjoy my kids and my lot at this season. Four kids under 8-years of age is a rough season, especially when two of the four are embarking on the terrible two’s.
Lately, I have been struggling with my oldest child and her “growing pains”. I realize that I need to choose grace and try to infuse joy in the situation. It is difficult when I am in the moment, reacting to one of her moods. It is hard to remember my playful, fun-loving daughter is a child of God and needs grace. I know that love is the portion she needs, not condemnation.
Struggles will come with kids, family, co-workers, spouses and the lot. What will I choose as my portion? I choose Christ. He is my chosen portion when my cup is full of struggles. He knows the situation far better than I do and the other person’s issues. He knows my needs and also what my daughter needs – space for His grace to come in.
This verse has kept me going in the midst of struggles. I keep saying to myself, “You are my portion, Lord!” It is not always easy and the struggles will always be there, but I am consciously deciding to make the Lord my chosen portion no matter the day, hour or season. The platter may not be my choice but having God’s grace and Lordship over my struggle makes it so much more palatable.
Chosen Portion
Grace. Love. Lordship.
What platter is God serving up for you today? How can you provide space for grace?
Good reminder for me.