Finding Joy in the mundane...

"...follow in the path he has given each of us, content that we should take delight in simple, daily things and do what good we can with what he brings our way. For even simple things and deeds of seeming insignificance can be of everlasting value when the Lord himself is doing them in us, absurd as it may seem" Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 Paraphrase by T.M. Moore

I have to say, I have no idea who T.M. Moore is, but I think he paraphrased these verses for mothers, in particular stay-at-home moms. While there is great joy and fun in most of my days at home with the girls, there is also such repetition and so many trivial tasks. These verses encourage me to take a different look at the parts of 'the path he has given' me and try to have a different attitude and perspective on them.

They challenge me to find contentment and joy in the 'now' of life, before it is gone. So, tomorrow when I fold the laundry, change the diapers and cook another meal, I will have faith that it has eternal value, even if it seems absurd!! I will give thanks that it is me, not someone else changing the diapers. I will give thanks that my first chance to start laundry is 9 a.m., not p.m. after working all day. I will give thanks that I can cook for and nourish my family with healthy meals, because my schedule allows me to.