This morning I thought about my relationship with my children. I have always tried to shield them from extreme responsibilities, or simply put: too much work. This is another way patterns can show up in our lives.
Where did that propensity originate? I believe it came from my denial of the labor I had undertaken. If I continue to accept that we have each been born with a will to work for God along with enjoying the gifts of God, I may be able to step right over this old habit of mine.
So what is an authentic relationship with my children? How can I break my pattern of wishing that they did not have to work so hard and so long?
I think my salvation, the means of grace in my conundrum, rests in my firm and clear relationship with the Risen Lord. As Mary, the Mother of Jesus said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior."
Beginning with that choice, I can look around and see how well we are all connected. As members of the body of Christ we are not isolated, nor slaves, but are working well with others.