Attending the Hearts at Home Conference “as a Little Child”
I’m so excited! Today and tomorrow I’ll be attending the Hearts at Home conference with some women from my church!
I have to confess, though, that as I write this, I’ve already begun to dig into the snacks I’m preparing to bring along. (Sorry roomies! I won’t eat them all before 4 p.m.!)
Why the snacks? (Yes, how is that I know we’ll be hungry at 11:00 tonight? I don’t usually eat salsa and chips at that time…)
Well, actually, I based my purchases on past conference and camp experiences. And so that got me thinking about something…
I’m packing snacks like a kid heading off to camp. What if I packed my heart the same way?
The Word says we must receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a child, right? With the faith of a child - eager, expectant, open. What if I brought that same enthusiasm to whatever I might experience, learn, or participate in at this weekend’s women’s retreat? How much more meaningful might my worship be, and how much might that influence my life back home when I return?
I know it’s hard for us to pick up and leave our little ones. Part of my procrastination in packing the rest of my things has to do with a reluctance to leave, even though I know they’re in good hands!
But the truth is, we need to be nourished spiritually as moms! And taking some time “away” to allow for that inner growth is more than just O.K., it’s a responsibility.
So how about you? What are you going to be doing this weekend? Where can you fit in a break from the everyday to get away, worship the Lord, and see what He has to teach you at this time in your life?
You could:
- Swap playdates with a friend and spend some time alone with God, reading through the verses shared in this week’s Tuesdays at 2:00
- Listen to the audio of your favorite pastor or radio ministry
- Use your church’s nursery this Sunday so that you can focus your attention on Him during worship
- Read a book by one of your favorite Christian authors
There are many ways to nourish your soul. However you choose to respond to that tug in your chest that says “Come closer,” I encourage you to go ahead and do it. Don’t wait for the perfect time!
See, I think that’s part of what He meant when He said we should come “as little children.” Notice that the next time you’re going somewhere as a family. They’re not worried one bit about what they’re wearing, whether they’re prepared, or whether things appear “perfect.” They just take the next step! And that’s what we can do, as well.
If this is something you feel you need help with, feel free to contact me or make plans to join us for the next Tuesdays at 2:00 support call for Christian moms.
Blessings,
Jennifer
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with Christian Parenting Coach, Jennifer Wolf by calling (616) 499-3376 or complete a 
October 28th, 2007 at 2:24 am
We actually switched churches to one that had a nursery. As much as we wanted to “teach” our children how to behave in church - the reality was that none of us was getting anything out of the service. My youngest is in the nursery and my oldest is old enough for religious education (called “WOW - Wee Ones Worship”) and I feel better that he is getting something. Part of me wants him kneeling next to me, but I know that will come in time. It was a hard decision but a good one.
October 29th, 2007 at 11:27 pm
I have been to this conference 3 times and have been floored every time. I was so sad to miss this year, but I had my college 10 year reunion. I hope you enjoyed it.