a spiritual mom.

"Whether our children are biological, adopted, fostered, or spiritual, love is what gives us that role of influence in another’s life. We are mothers because we love, and love is paired, so often and necessarily, with sacrifice. Christ’s life showed us this reality perfectly."
-Ann Swindell 

Many beautiful words, unspoken moments, and the sincerest of hugs have been exchanged over the past 1.5 years I've worked at HOH. Some of my most tender life experiences have been shared with the words from my beautiful women. Many of the words echoed resembled these... "You taught me to believe in myself when I saw no hope. You are the mother I never had. I always knew at the end of the day that you loved me, and that I was worth fighting for. I hope to find the light and love you have within you someday." After similar exchanges were had I typically drove home from work in tears thanking my Heavenly Father for channeling his love through me. 

...if we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love his perfected in us. John 4:12

It has been through this job that I've come to understand how to utilize Gods love so differently. I did not understand the impact I could make by being an instrument of simply his love. I could not verbally share the gospel, but through prayers I believe God allowed me to share the very essence of what brings men unto Christ, love.  

Since becoming a biological mom my understanding has grown and the words of that quote have taken on new life. I'm beginning to see that all along my life I've been given the opportunity to be a spiritual mom. Although I know how to take care of Lincolns physical needs, the preparation I've gone through to take care of his spiritual needs far surpasses anything else I wish to give him. Lines in my patriarchal blessings are taking on new meaning as I understand how God has given me roles throughout my life that embody what he wants most in his mothers and that is love; his eternal love. The greatest influences in my life have always come from those who love me most; those that love me honestly with Gods love. 

Oh how I'm striving to embody that type of love in all areas of my life right now. Sometimes I'm really not good at it. I get caught up in my own "stuff". Gosh I frustrate myself sometimes when I look back at areas I missed growth, but it is what I'm working on most in my life right now. I want those I come in contact with to know that I value them, that I truly love them. I want to exemplify the light of Christ through his unfailing love. Most of all I want to give as much of Gods eternal love to my family as I possibly can.  

God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. John 4:16