A Minute For MommyΔείγμα

Because It Makes You Happy

I was sitting outside in the boys' playhouse. Clay and Caleb were in the sandbox below, working diligently. Clay soon appeared by my side with a big, yellow bucket. Very excitedly, he told me this was a present for me! With much appreciation, and a little bit of curiosity, I took the bucket from him and looked inside. The bucket was filled with Legos and sand. I wish you could have seen the smile and excitement on his face as I –opened” the gift. It might have only been sand and toys, but no gift could have meant more to me at that moment.

I wasn't sure why I had been honored with such a unique gift. It wasn't my birthday. It wasn't Mother's Day. I hadn't asked Clay to make me anything. When I asked Clay why he gave me this special gift, he replied without hesitation, "Because it makes you happy!” My heart began to melt.

I was amazed that, at the tender age of three and a half, my son wanted to do something not because he wanted anything in return, but because he simply wanted to make me happy. Wow! Clay had no idea how special or how loved it would make me feel. He represented exactly how God wants all of us to live out our lives - showing selfless love and kindness. Clay could not have made me feel more loved that day. I was so proud of him.

Take time to praise your children when they do special things for others. I also want to encourage you to do something soon for someone else. As Clay reminded me, it doesn't have to be fancy or expensive, just something from your heart that shows you care. Just as Clay's face lit up when he gave me his sand-filled present, I wish you that same joy as you do something just "because it makes them happy.” What a wonderful way to honor our Lord.