Tweet Lately I have been studying on how to better parent my children. I just really wanted to know that they were getting what they needed from me.Well, this morning, after hearing about the tragic Batman premiere movie theatre shooting, and learned that most of the 12 victims were children, I had to take a pause.



I thought to myself, "What kind of hope can you give to a mother who after the media buzz is over, still has to go pick out a little 4'-5' casket? What can you say to her? Would she even hear you?" I doubt it seriously. You see our kids are truly a gift from our heavenly Father above. You look at them and just feel joy. You can remember what the delivery room looked like where you first laid eyes on them. You can remember how when you were down, looking at their carefree spirit gave you hope.
 Is their any condolence that can be offered that would make it all better."

The event is so fresh, and so close to our hearts at the moment that its hard to even think of such a thing. Though there is hope, what has been done as been done. It will not be reversed in this life. So should we go about our normal day and just think, "Man, that's tough...poor things." Yes, recognizing the tragedy is good, but it should not stop there. If there can be something good produced from it, then at the very least, it was not in vain.
If you have children, or children in your life, you had better love the mess out of them today. Look into their bright eyes and see what God has done. Not because you are sooooo deserving of this great gift (Romans 3:23, Isaiah 64:6,),...No we are not deserving. BUT GOD! In His loving grace allowed His own Son to take the penalty for us, make us joint heirs, give us GOOD gifts, like children.

My gifts...

 Likewise, let us lavish gifts on our undeserving children today (I know I am not alone when it comes to children not always deserving a treat..). Show them love, show them grace!

This morning I took careful time in preparing a warm breakfast for my family. I served chocolate (almond) milk before they drank their water. I made sure to sprinkle some shredded cheese over their eggs (because that always makes my daughter smile). I prayed with them. ...As tears began to well up in my eyes, I kissed them each on their foreheads. After swimming lessons, we rode over some train tracks (just because that always makes my sons day.) There is a time for everything under the sun. A time for discipline and chastisement, and a time for grace and mercy. Let us all choose wisely, as we are now setting up or breaking down our children's understanding about our gracious and just God.

R.I.P. Little ones. Praise the Lord little ones, for he is Holy. Joy in His presence as you are now free from pain, sin, and sorrow. Bless the parents and families of these little ones. Let us pray for them.

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