Note to an expectant mum

I'm sorry I have just realised that this post was never published because I wrote it in Cornwall where the reception is very dodgy and it kept failing! So this was written mid-August.

[On another note, I know I am posting a lot less than I was. I think that's how it's going to be for a while. Thanks again for reading.]

I was at a baby-shower last week where we were writing little notes of wisdom to the new mum. I always find it really tricky to think of something in that situation, put on the spot and half-listening to the conversations around you. I wrote something which I think will be helpful but it's not really the message I would really want to communicate to a new mum.

We are currently on holiday in Cornwall. It's been a lovely trip so far, nothing exotic or fast-paced, just days on the beach and days wandering around Cornish towns. Perfect. Lots of time for thinking too. 

I've been lying in bed and pondering the message I wished I had written at the baby-shower. I think the top message I would want to give a new mum would be: your main job in raising your child is to love them as God loves you. It is not to teach them manners, or to get them to eat all their dinner. It is not to breast-feed them or buy them trendy clothes. It is not to teach them phonics or how to behave themselves in church. How releasing! How simple! All the rest will follow.

It reminds me of the verse:

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matt 6.33

Life is about loving God and then sharing that love with those around us. I so wish I could remember that in all those moments when I start comparing myself or judging my own efforts. I would love an expectant mum to have that in mind as she began parenthood.