188. Cheerful Parenting
Today’s reading: “The Ministry of Healing” pp. 374b-377c.
Heavenly angels watch the care-worn mother, noting the burdens she carries day by day. Her name may not have been heard in the world, but it is written in the Lamb’s book of life.
Today Ellen expands on the grand privilege of being a mother. An issue not just in heaven but even New Zealand politics at the moment.
So why is parenthood so important?
Because it interprets to their child, the gentle love, justice and uncomplaining patience of God.
…by teaching the child to love and trust and obey them, (parents) are teaching (the child) to love and trust and obey (their) Father in heaven…(with) gratitude and reverence.
This is an inheritance more valuable than wealth “— a treasure as enduring as eternity.”
The mother’s sacred duty
‘Train this child for God, give it such an excellent character that it will be a distinguished example forever.’
This is achieved with the mother’s,
- Cheerful, contented, happy disposition
- Patient effort, self-control, tact, wisdom, and self-sacrificing love.
This is best accomplished when the father is not morose, selfish, moody and domineering, but,
- sympathetic and affectionate
- useful, accommodating, encouraging; shielding his wife from her heaviest duties
- kind, loving, courteous
- caring and comforting, radiating happiness, joy and peace.
Tomorrow we learn to see parenting as a privilege.
