Monday Musing: As Fragile as Butterfly Wings

This photo was taken this weekend in Twin Lakes, Iowa. The Monarch butterflies
 are on their annual migration from Canada to Northern Mexico. 

As I'm reading the story of Jesus' trial and crucifixion yet again, I'm struck this time by Jesus' restraint. He had the power to escape the torture. He didn't. He had the power to take revenge. He didn't. He had the power to destroy the men who sought to destroy Him. He didn't.

He restrained His tongue. He restrained His body. He was reviled, but He did not revile in return. (1 Peter 2:23)

It is this restraint to which Jesus calls His people. It is this restraint to which He calls parents. We have the power, both verbally and physically, to hurt our children. But as followers of Christ, we must never be agents of harm!

Jesus, my Saviour and my King, I confess that I have not consistently shown restraint with my words and my tone. I have been critical and harsh when I should have encouraged and built up. I confess that I have not consistently shown restraint physically. I been rough when I should have been gentle. Please forgive me. I do not deserve your mercy, but I plead for it.

I also beg to be conformed into Your image. I long to be like you, Jesus. Please infuse me with the strength to show restraint. Please make me meek. Please make me humble. Please make me gentle. I long to die to self. I long to die to pride. Please remake me in Your image. Please slay the ME in me and fill the void with You. My children's hearts are as fragile as butterfly wings. Please slay the bully in me that wants to lash out at them verbally or physically. Make me a gentle, nuturing, understanding mom.

I love you, Lord Jesus, and through You I long to truly love my children.

~Mrs. Beaver