Lenten Reader | Day 18

As a momma of three precious little girls, one of my greatest callings in this life is to be a disciple-maker. As I follow Jesus, I invite them to do the same, saying, "Come and see with me that the Lord is good." Together, we read the Word, memorize it, and look for God’s fingerprints in the beauty all around us.

But explaining the fullness of the gospel to my kiddos isn’t always easy. Sometimes, I ramble, using theological words they do not yet understand. I preach sermons when I should simply let their hearts and minds absorb God’s truth. And the Trinity? Even I can’t fully grasp it. In all honesty, I sometimes confuse them — and myself — more than I help.

But one thing they do understand is my love for them. I love them when they are kind and sweet, and I love them when they are selfish and disobedient. I always love them. And when I make this connection telling them about God’s unchanging love, I see the warmth of understanding come over them. And I tell them how much I need Jesus too — how Mommy struggles with selfishness just like they do.

But God. Oh, how I love those words!

Despite my lack of love, He loves me. Despite my selfishness, He sacrificed His life for me. Despite my tendency to pull away, He invites me to sit with Him. Despite my harshness and anger, He lavishes His kindness on me. I don’t deserve that. It’s completely unfair.

And here’s where unfairness is a beautiful thing—because mercy is totally unfair.

So today, remember how deeply, unfairly loved you are. Rest in the hope that His love and kindness will only grow richer in the days to come.

Alyssa Hall