daughter...

Two days ago I taught you how to make bread. You've only been asking for months and months and months. Today, I stood and just observed. I took pictures too of course because today was a big day, a lot less guidance, and you were so excited! I gave direction when needed but you are well on your way to completing the process from start to finish (minus lugging the flour bin out and then back into the cabinet, preheating the oven, putting the bread on the rack and taking it out when finished). I'll remain mama for all of that for just a little while longer.

You are 5. And you are beautiful. Though charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting but a woman who fears the Lord is worthy to be praised. You want to be a mama like me when you grow up, so... in little ways I can think of now, I am reminded I am the one to show you and prepare you for such a calling. Sometimes I pray you are nothing like me as a mama, but then I remember you were put with me for a reason. Through my weaknesses you can see just how strong He is and you can walk in grace too.

While it's all fun and interesting now, because it's new and exciting, what I hope to pass onto you (or rather allow the Holy Spirit to impart to you) is joy that comes from serving, day in and day out after it has lost its charm. This bread recipe as easy and mindless as it really is (no kneading!) can become burdensome to make. When we're out of bread and I'm tired, even the easy 'throw it together method' can become brutally inconvenient. And that's when duty must take over. But, it doesn't have to unaccompanied from joy!

But even that takes a heart of intention.

I want to be intentional with you. I want you to be well equipped from our little bread making days and responsibilities so that when you are a mama you'll know where your joy, strength, and worth comes from. I want you to know who satisfies and fulfills like none other. That there is rest for the weary and His presence easily tapped into even in the confines of your own little four walled cozy and yet crazy haven. That walking in His Spirit is the only way to not fulfill the lust of the flesh. The ones that will make you painstakingly aware of your need for Him and yet will remind you of the power over sin you hold through Jesus Christ. You will no longer have to choose sin, and yet should you, with repentance comes no condemnation! How good is our God, little lady?! You'll have scriptures stored up and ready to rage war with, yes, even when you make a simple batch of bread for your hungry little brood someday.

You know, all the things being revealed to me by His Spirit too that I'm privileged and called to share with you.

That's what I pray you catch.