Encouragement in the Ordinary

Ordinary. That pretty much sums up my life of late. A stomach virus recently made its way through my little family, one at a time. So the most exciting event in the last two weeks was a trip to the bank. Needless to say, I was looking forward to free lollipops from the teller.
 
But even though we are healthy now, not much has changed. We’re pretty much home, all day, every day, doing what we did the day before.
 
So when I listened to my dad’s message from Together for the Gospel, entitled “Ordinary Pastors” I was very encouraged. I know, it is addressed to pastors (obviously!), but substitute the “ordinary pastor” for “ordinary wife and mother” or “ordinary _________(fill in the blank with whatever you do)” and I think you’ll find a lot of relevant truth.
 
When my dad identified with the temptation to discouragement that ordinary pastors face, I could certainly relate as I am often discouraged about my mothering.
 
When he reminded pastors that the gospel (and not their administrative skills or creativity) was most important, I was reminded that the power of the gospel is also at work in my heart and home. 
 
When he exhorted pastors to imitate the patience of Jesus Christ, I was encouraged to persevere in patience as I train my four-year-old.
 
Each point was relevant for me in my ordinary days as I seek to love my husband and care for my children.
 
So, the next time you find a few moments in your ordinary day, consider listening to this message as though it were addressed to you--and see if you aren’t blessed.
 
Off to wash some dishes…

T4G 2010 -- Session 9 -- C.J. Mahaney from Together for the Gospel (T4G) on Vimeo.