Muzzles and Stalactites

I've complained for a while now that we don't take vacations. But now we had the chance to take a short one.

And it gave me a big headache.


Mostly because, as I planned it, I was annoyed by stupid fees tacked on and realized nothing is really a good deal and that a simple weekend getaway was going to cost a fortune. At least a fortune in my mind since this last paycheck has already been spent in theory. aka: worry.

Which results in a grumpy momma, which defeats the purpose of a vacation.

At the moment I realized this (several moments too late, buy the way), I ran to my room to clear my head. This is what God gave me:

For it is written in the law of Moses, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain." Is it oxen God is concerned about? Or does He say it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written, that he who plows should plow in hope. If we  have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?
                                                                                      1 Corinthians 9: 9-11

 A little strange, I admit. I realize the context was not concerning mothers, but yet it may be. You see, I do get so annoyed by mothers that just complain about how much work and so little resources they have while staring at amazing blessings! Meanwhile they are given the undeserving opportunity to take them and mold them and minister to them for the good. But that is exactly what I do.

Because what I do is in order to serve my family (resulting in overtime hours and ZERO pay). And I must do it all and stay under budget. So I sacrifice and then complain.

But wouldn't I be so much more effective if I sowed in hope and just let some of "life" eat up my budget and praise God that he has given me so much, and will continue to provide? Yep.

I need a lot of help to be a good mother. God has a lot to give.

This imperfect weekend vacation revealed to me what God does give. For instance: A husband I do not deserve. Time to appreciate that. Laughter from silly kids. A place to sit that does not include a "to do" list as an amenity. Beauty. All around. Even in the underground that was not discovered by man until 150 years ago. Yet it was there all along.

Thank you, Lord for giving mothers opportunities to enjoy the fruits of their labor--even if the labor does not equal the joy of the fruits. Thank you .