TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

DEVOTIONAL

by Elder Chris Beltran

In yesterday’s devotion, we learned that giving affirmation and acceptance are essential in developing a deeper relationship with our family. We will continue today with two more A’  ‘s of our “Faithful Parenting” series.  

C. Expressing appreciation gives significance. Appreciation is a feeling or thought that you have said or done something that would add value to others. The sweetest of all sounds is praise. Showing appreciation gives people a sense of value and self-esteem, and often they would become more receptive to your outlook and input. “Thank you for washing your dish. You did very well. How about next time you can wash mommy’s dish as well to make her feel happy?” “Please” and “thank you” are the two magic words. Catch your children doing something good and appreciate them. “I saw you helping your brother with his assignments, great job as an achi.” Learn to say “I’m sorry” when we make a mistake. You will earn their respect and trust. You do not earn the right to catch them doing something wrong until you learn to catch them doing right. And this goes to other people as well. As an observation, often, our pastors are most unappreciated. They prepared hard for their messages, and all we could say to him was that we didn’t like the color of their tie. Be more sensitive and appreciative. It will go a long way in building relationships.

D. Availability gives a sense of importance. How do you spell love? Time. “Daddy, let’s go play together or watch a movie.” As much as possible, make yourself available to them. Your kids will receive it as: “I am important to my dad or mom.” Never be in a hurry. When they are older, they will never forget it and show you the same importance that you gave them by being available to you as well. When the disciples were rebuking the children, Jesus reminded them that children are precious in God’s sight. He made Himself available for them, even in His busy schedule. He was an excellent example of being both appreciative of children’s presence and availability.

REFLECTION

Is there anything that we need to be expressing appreciation for? Do not take people for granted. Are we available for our family members? Being available doesn’t just mean being at home but doing your own things. It’s not about you being present physically at home but busy with other matters. Love means being available. “Available” means opening ourselves and initiating to having more meaningful encounters with our loved ones.   

PRAYER

Lord, the children are gifts from You. Thank You for the great example in showing Your appreciation by being available to them. In our busy schedules, the first people to suffer are those closest to us. Help us not take our loved ones for granted by making them feel loved and significant in our lives as we express our appreciation for them and simply being available. Help me, Lord, in Jesus’ name, Amen.