Obedience

Oh how I love lessons in obedience. Unfortunately, I feel like I've been teaching a lot more of them as our free spirited, beauty of a four year old Maia seems to take direction about as well as a compass in a magnet store. A common response to us finally getting fed up when she has ignored our third directive to do something and the threat of punishment is imminent is, "Sorry, sorry."

My standard response to her has become, "Don't be sorry. Be obedient."

I don't know how many times we have had this exchange over the summer, but it's been a lot.

Another favorite phrase at our house that applies to both kids is "Delayed obedience is disobedience." Xander heard this a lot when he was younger and seems to grasp the idea. We haven't used this one as much with Maia yet since even delayed obedience would be a step forward.

She's such a joy (and I mean that in sincerity with all the love a father can feel) and brightens our lives in ways that can't be described, only experienced. Yet, there's the hope that she will grow into a young lady who is not only fun and delightful to be around, but also respects those around her enough to show obedience and grace.

When I look inward, I wonder how many of these lessons I have yet to really embrace myself. If I truly desire a life of Christlike obedience where what I say and what I do are intimately mated, then there's a lot of room for improvement. I find myself with so much on my plate that I keep putting things off until they absolutely have to be done. I'm reminded that "Delayed obedience is disobedience." I trip up in my attitude, actions and heart and am compelled to say "I'm sorry." I hear, "Don't be sorry. Be obedient." I keep learning and praying that God will grant me the grace to put what I learn into practice.