Friday 13 March 2009

What about me?

For this week's Bible entry, I am going to focus on the what about me?
In the Fall edition of The Old Schoolhouse magazine, Amy Roberts www.homeschoolblogger.com/raisingarrows wrote about the 'Me Time Myth.' It is the idea that as Mums we need to have time away in order to be able to give. Everywhere you read, in magazines, on television, is the idea of me, me. Put me first they say and the rest will follow. The so called parenting experts will tell us that if we don't take time out our children will suffer.
So, how true is this claim? It says in Colossions 2:8 "Beware, lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."
Now, from a non Christian point of view, the world teaches us that we should look after our selves first. Of course a non Christian is not living in view of eternity, so the best they can do, is to make life as comfortable as necessary. On the other hand, we as Christians are not supposed to live for this world, but to look for our blessed hope, in heaven. We were called as servants for Christ, and in serving him we find joy, as we are free indeed. When we homeschool, it is going to take a lot more of our time, and we all have different family need, some having larger families, or sick children, or even may battle with illness themselves. So if we are not able to have time away, then what happens then? Do we feel resentful, or angry. I have been there, years ago, when I had 4 children, 4 and under, and my dh was away long hours. People would say, ooh, you need time to yourself you know. I began to think perhaps that was right as well. If we are not right in our attitude to our husband and children, then we are going to be resentful, if we however seek God first, then we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. I find that when we neglect God's word we suffer. I guess it isn't the bread of life for nothing! If we don't eat, likewise, then we get weak.
We can be fulfilled in our calling as home educators, and we can find fulfillment. Think of the souls we are influencing, for God's kingdom. What joy in heaven to be joined by our children! Jesus served, and humbled himself on earth. He was not born in grand surroundings, he lived in a normal home, and he served others. Oh, that we could have a serving spirit. I have a long way to go, mind you. If we take our burdens to Jesus, then he will refresh us and grant us peace and joy. The road is not always easy, and of course the world will scoff, as they cannot see our reason, they are blinded.
I would welcome any reflections, or thoughts on this. I am not being judgmental, but only seeking to encourage us all to first seek the Bible, and not be turned away.

1 comment:

  1. I think we need to be careful when we suggest that if a woman desires time for herself that she's being selfish. I think there are a lot of women struggling with that entire idea.
    I think we should step away if things has been a lot during the day or week. If not, we'll loose it. I think it's one thing to step away to just get some fresh air, hang out with the girls in order to laugh and just have time to be away.
    I don't get out much and I've come to accept that this is my time to be at home. One day I'll get my time away, but for now, God will give me the grace to endure, but I also know that there has been times when the day or week was overwhelming and I just needed a moment to go in my room, or take a hot bath, I wasn't out in the streets, but I needed that breather to think, pray, and just reflect on the truth of scripture verses my flesh.
    I think we need to be VERY careful when we say things like that because I know some women how love their children dearly, but since their husbands are gone all day, they're homeschooling, at home, and they get tired. I mean, we're around sinful, people (they're precious, but they don't know about dwelling in the Spirit, etc. yet) So, we're taking on that all day. We too get weary and that's why I don't think it's wrong for a mother to want a moment to herself so that she can step back, regroup, and reflect in order to come back and give more. Sorry for the article! LOL
    I just feel so passionate about this.

    ReplyDelete