We were sitting in our small group Sunday night. I love our small group, and not just because my husband and I lead it. In fact, that’s probably the least wonderful thing about it.

Small groups just have a sweetness about them. An intimacy. You can get real in a way that isn’t possible in more crowded settings. I hope all of you have a community where you can let your guard down.

Our small group is a place of comfort and camaraderie. A place of encouragement where I discover week after week, “Whew, thank you Lord that I am not alone.”

Every week we talk and pray and talk some more about our journey, in life and faith. For all of us that journey includes navigating the often confusing and wearying world of raising children.

There’s not many areas where I feel less competent. The demands can be so overwhelming and the question is plaguing: “Am I doing this right?”

I mean you only get one shot. To pour into your kids all the things that matter and  somehow not freak out over the many little things that don’t. I tend to be the one that gets lost on the little things. Is it just me?

But our dear friend said something as we discussed this monumental task of bringing up the next generation. It was powerful and made me stop, several times, in the days since and really think. Reevaluate. He said,

I just try to show mercy. I know for me, I beg for mercy and I’m always so happy to get it. I want them to know mercy, too.

I can honestly say I’ve never considered the concept of mercy with my children. I tend to be more consumed with setting the standard, expecting compliance and just responses for disobedience.

I don’t think that’s entirely wrong. Our children need discipline. It’s a vital part of raising them well to teach them right, wrong and consequences. I believe that children need boundaries and consistency and someone to tell them “no” sometimes.

But, what about the opportunities to show mercy? To lavish on them a wholly undeserved second chance? To remind them that perfect love is never based on performance? How often do I do that?

Not often enough.

But this is a journey. And there’s room to make adjustments. Now, my eyes have been opened to look for those opportunities. And I’m excited to include another dimension in parenting that will give them a fuller picture of the Father’s lavish heart of mercy toward all of us.

The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. {Psalm 103:8-11}

By Kathryn, Our tiny BIG Life

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