If it is true, as the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, then I suggest that the way to a woman’s heart is through her children.

Admit it. We all love to see other people encouraging our children. Appreciating them. Observing them and seeing what we see in our little ones.

But too often, we don’t really see the children around us unless they are misbehaving. Recently our song leader shared a prayer concern for a family member who had been quite ill. After the service, I was busy putting away hymnals and closing the piano when I noticed a sweet little 7 year-old girl had come up to him and he was bent over talking to her. I enjoyed that scene as it reminded me of the greeter who would get down on his knees to welcome my children to church years ago.

But as he straightened up and turned toward me, I saw that he was crying. He said,

“That little girl is the sweetest. She came to tell me she was praying for my brother-in-law and I should let her know anything else to pray for.”

 

I was appreciating him when the true beauty was in what she was saying. Never underestimate children.

And don’t neglect to encourage their parents.

Motherhood is a full-time job and we all need to be encouraged now and then for the things that we do well. So take some time this month and really see your pastor’s kids. Their delight in eating donuts at the table with church members. Their enthusiasm as they sing during church. Their cuteness dressed in an outfit they put together themselves. Their joy at being at church. Their intensity as they take notes during the sermon. Their helpfulness in the nursery or kitchen. Their smiles.

Now, excuse me. I need to call a sweet little girl’s mom.