"Does He use me too, mama?"

I think I have some of the best coversations with our children while we are driving in the car! Yesterday, we were on our way home from the post office and we were talking about how God can use anything or anyone for His plans, and what a joy it is to be used by Him! Wubs asked, "Does He use me too, mama?"

I said, "Yes, honey! Did you know God uses you to teach me things sometimes? " I was watching in the rearview mirror. Bella and Wubs exchanged surprised looks.

"Really??"

"Yup! When I see the way you show compassion to others- the way you care about people who are sad or sick or lonely- I am reminded how I should always be quick to show compassion to others.I love the way God has given you such a gentle heart. God uses you to teach me how to always try to help others."

"Wow, I didn't even know that, mama! What about Bella? Does she teach you, too?" Bella perked up her little ears at Wubs' question.

"Of course! Bella teaches me a lot about being excited to celebrate all I've been given! Bella's heart is always so easily excited about our special plans or treats or playdates or storybooks... Bella gets excited about everything!" (Bella was giggling in agreement.) "I love that about Bella. She teaches me to always be looking for God's blessings and celebrate what we have been given."

"Well, what about JJ?" Although JJ wasn't really paying attention, I wanted to be sure to share with the girls about how the Lord uses our son for His purposes, too.

"Oh, God uses JJ, too! JJ has taught me a lot about loving others with all my heart, not holding back. Have you ever seen the way JJ hugs people? He always gives them his biggest, biggest hug and he squeezes as tight as he can! That's how God loves us, with everything He has. He loved us so much He sent Jesus to die on the cross for our sins! And God wants us to love others the way He loves us- with all that we have. JJ has taught me a lot about that."

I am so very thankful to be a mommy! And I'm so very thankful for the many ways (too many to list...) that the Lord uses our children to teach us more about Him and refine us in His image.

"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."- Ephesians 4:3

 ps- JJ had a wonderful birthday! Here are a few pictures from his big day!

Thank you Papa and Nana, for Wreck It Ralph!

Wubs and Bella went shopping with daddy to get JJ some gifts. He got a 'bo-bike' (motorcycle) and his first set of golf clubs. He was super excited!

Nana also sent JJ a personalized Wreck It Ralph shirt. I think I'll have to wash it every night... wink.

Daddy and his big boy. I love this picture!

And, mommy had to make JJ a cake- Wreck It Ralph and Fix It Felix! We sang happy birthday while we did Face Time with Papa and Nana, and even Great Grandpa and Great Grandma! It was such a treat!