Hug of Mercy

A cake and pretty decorations sat on the table, ready for a party. “Mommy, Mommy, I’m sorry I fell asleep without cleaning up. The table looks pretty now. Will it be like the book about the little red hen, the book on the table? No work, so no party?” Julia smiled at her daughter and said, “We’ll see.” Her son came in and said almost the same thing and she told him, “We’ll see.” Then her older daughter Kate rushed in and said, “Mom, I’m sorry. I got busy talking to Jenny on the phone and didn’t make anyone clean up. Will I be left out of the party?”

Julia smiled again and said, “Let me get dressed and then we’ll talk.” Julia sat at the table and invited her children to sit. She said, “I came home last night to a big mess. Laundry baskets filled with unfolded clothes, dirty dishes everywhere, and I’m sure you know what toys and things you didn’t put away.” They nodded.

“I felt angry and wanted to give everyone extra chores. Then I prayed. I remembered God forgave me and showed me mercy. I didn’t deserve to be forgiven, including for my anger last night. I chose to show mercy to all of you. We’ll enjoy it later after your schoolwork.”

Everyone yelled, “Thanks mommy!” Kate said, “We don’t deserve the party, but we are grateful.” She turned to her brother and sister and said, “Let’s show mom we are thankful by doing our work.” After they completed their work, they ate cake and played games.

Today’s Mom Step: Show mercy to help your children understand God’s mercy.