Changing Diapers in Christian Faith

via the Girl Talk Blog

Today was the same as yesterday, which was the same as the day before that, and so on--for about as long as I can remember now. I changed diapers, made lunches, put toys away, corrected bad attitudes, prayed for ouchies, and imagined what it would feel like to take a really long nap. The days are long and the days are ordinary; and sometimes I lose sight of an eternal perspective. But this quote from Martin Luther on Justin Taylor's blogbrought me fresh encouragement today. It is written to fathers but applies all the more to us moms:

Now observe that when that clever harlot, our natural reason . . . , takes a look at married life, she turns up her nose and says, “Alas, must I rock the baby, wash its diapers, make its bed, smell its stench, stay up nights with it, take care of it when it cries, heal its rashes and sores. . . ?” [LW 45:39]

What then does Christian faith say to this? It opens its eyes, looks upon all these insignificant, distasteful, and despised duties in the Spirit, and is aware that they are all adorned with divine approval as with the costliest gold and jewels. It says, O God, because I am certain that thou hast created me as a man and hast from my body begotten this child, I also know for a certainty that it meets with thy perfect pleasure. I confess to thee that I am not worthy to rock the little babe or wash its diapers, or to be entrusted with the care of the child and its mother. How is it that I, without any merit, have come to this distinction of being certain that I am serving thy creature and thy most precious will? O how gladly will I do so, though the duties should be even more insignificant and despised. Neither frost nor heat, neither drudgery nor labor, will distress or dissuade me, for I am certain that it is thus pleasing in thy sight. . . . God, with all his angels and creatures is smiling—not because the father is washing diapers, but because he is doing so in Christian faith.[LW 45:39-40]

An Encouragement and Precaution for Parents

By John Piper

Jesus tells of two sons:

What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, “Son, go and work in the vineyard today.” And he answered, “I will not,” but afterward he changed his mind and went. And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, “I go, sir,” but did not go. (Matthew 21:28-30)

I draw this advice for parents from these words: Do not despair of the rebel, and do not assume the heart of the compliant child is with you.

Which means practically, pray like crazy for both of them. And keep showing both of them the gospel of undeserved, blood-bought grace.

Desiring God Blog

Moms for Modesty

This is from Moms for Modesty blog.

Many of you shared your concerns about the current retail clothing trends for little girls and teen girls. The revealing nature of the styles and the slogans which convey attitude or sexual double entendre were of particular concern to you. You also shared your struggle with finding clothing that was stylish and fun, yet modest. Some of you even addressed this issue on your own blogs.

I've created the Moms for Modesty Mission Statement. If you agree with the Statement, please sign it by leaving your affirmation in the comments of this post. This is not an issue that is exclusively Christian in nature, though I am a Christian mom.

It is a parenting issue, a mom issue.

Many retailers, marketing and PR firms review mommy blogs for trends and opinions. If we speak as one we may be able to effect change. Please let your blogging friends know and if you normally don't leave a comment, please leave one now.

Moms for Modesty Mission Statement

*As a Mom for Modesty I believe in common sense modesty for girls and young women.

*I believe in refraining from sexualizing our girls and young women.

*I believe that it is unwise and unfair to taunt boys and young men by permitting my daughter(s) to dress in an immodest manner.

*I believe that true beauty comes from within and I strive to teach my daughter(s) this truth.

*I will loyally shop at retailers that provide girls' and young womens clothing that is modest, affordable and stylish.

Changing diapers to the Glory of GOD!

As a mom of young children, it is so easy to get caught up in a rut of selfishness. I see it in my own life on a daily basis...some days are better than others. The moment I catch myself thinking that my household chores and the requests and needs of my children are just too overwhelming, I have to ask for God's forgiveness.

I am blessed that I am able to stay home with my little ones. I am blessed that I am able to be the keeper of this house...and all the chores that go with it!

Have you ever had a day when the moment you sit down, you realize that one of your children needs their diaper changed? You sit there, thinking....how long can he go before I really have to change him? How self-centered to even think about such a thing!

The little things I do may not get noticed by many. I may not get the thanks and recognition that I think I deserve.

I know that He sees.

He sees me wiping noses. He sees me putting away the dishes. He sees me doing the piles of laundry. He sees me hugging and caring for His children. He sees me changing diapers.

My prayer is that I be less concerned with myself, taking comfort that He knows me inside and out. When I have to change what seems like the 100th dirty diaper of the day...I pray that my heart is rejoicing that I have been given the duty of caring for my young. It is such a small way to show Christ's love...and what better place to start than right here at home.