Tuesday, April 16, 2024
One of my many shortcomings as a mom...hair styling. Some of you may relate to this struggle.
You are not alone.
When my daughter Devin was younger, she would always request that I put her hair in a ponytail.
Awesome, no problem. Thanks for taking it easy on me, kid.
As she grew older and decided to grow her hair longer, it became apparent that my very limited skill set would soon be tested. We graduated to a simple braid about two years ago, and I've plateaued. A simple braid is the best I've got right now. I hope the future allows me to grow my hairstyle skills. We shall see.
I never expected that my "good enough" braiding style would come in handy recently, aside from the normal daily need.
Our small but mighty group of 10 (four parents and six kids) are preparing our hearts and hands to show God's love in whatever way we can to strangers in a place far from home.
Recently, our group made time to serve in a few different ways in our local communities. Our most recent opportunity was this past Saturday at the Perrysburg campus, where we worked alongside the wonderful team of Bags of Love. Among the stations we could help with was a jump rope making area. Not knowing what it took to make a jump rope, we decided to try it. When we learned that braiding was involved, I was pumped. Devin had never braided before, so she would be learning a new skill. I was confident I could practice my simple braid AND contribute to the cause. Winning!
I'm convinced that if you can take the time to notice, you will see that God works in your life, even in the smallest ways. As I was braiding my heart out, I recalled how hard I had been on myself about my lack of hairstyle acumen. My shortcoming had been a little thorn in my side for quite some time. But it occurred to me while serving with the group that even the smallest of self-proclaimed weaknesses belong to Him. Where I felt I fell short, He orchestrated a way to use me. When I felt hopeless, He saw my place in His plan.
I was so energized and reassured by this thought that after I finished my first jump rope, I started a second one. I was reminded of the verse Romans 8:28:
“And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Something as simple as braiding brought me to tears in the middle of the hour we spent on this project. I can't explain how the connection was made in my mind and heart, but I don't need to. God is good.
I can't wait to experience what He has in store for our group during our trip!!
~Sarah Goede