James 3:17-18 (ESV)17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, FULL OF MERCY and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. |
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THOUGHTS FROM THE BOARD As leaders, mentors, and coaches of those who may be starting their parenting journey with Prep for Parenting or nearing completion with Reaching the Heart of your Teen or those who are new to the teachings of GFI, we will provide the best encouragement when we include mercyin the process.
Our best example of mercy is that which we received from our Lord at Salvation. Ephesians 2:4 &5 “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive in Christ even when we were dead in our transgressions.”
Love is a companion of mercy, truly mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13). As we share with others and are candid and honest about our own struggles in parenting, we demonstrate mercy through empathy which prepares the heart and mind of the hearer to receive guidance. After all, it can be intimidating to others when it seems we have all the answers, know the right words and offer the best consequences for any given child-rearing situation or infraction. Listening with attentiveness then responding with kind words and an understanding heart displays mercy. Speaking words of life infuses hope and courage into the heart of the parent seeking help. |
Questions and Answers: Q. How do we extend mercy to that mom who mocks the choice of parenting we have made, or the in-law who accuses us of ruining their grandchild?
A. Mercy dictates that we forgive those who mock and malign us. It is not our job to change or convince them; it is our job to ask God to give us His heart toward the person who is offending us. We may have to forgive them more than once, and then we love without expectation, without any thought that their mind will be changed. But divine mercy will have its perfect work in me, it will change my heart. Mercy, present in my life by the power of God, challenges me to follow the wisdom given in Proverbs 15:1-2 that says, “a soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger”. “The tongue of the wise commends knowledge …”. Two contrasts present themselves in these proverbs. One in regards to our tone and another the self-control not to respond in the same manner as the questioner or accuser. Using caution to avoid the warning of Proverbs 26:4 that says, “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him”. As the saying goes, “but by the grace of God, go I.” |
Parenting without FearFear can paralyze a relationship between a parent and child and stop it from growing or moving forward. Anne Marie Ezzo and Sharon Carter share how God gives everyone a spirit of power, love, and sound mind which helps Moms combat fears they may have regarding their parenting. To order clickhere or visitwww.christianfamilyheritage.org |
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Define It:
Mercy: The dictionary says that mercy is a kindly forbearance shown toward an enemy, the discretionary power of a judge to pardon a horrible offence, divine favor or blessing. Or compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm, a disposition to be kind and forgiving. |
PERSONAL CHALLENGE: As we reflect on the familiar scripture, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believe in Him shall not perish”, God’s mercy is clearly spelled out. Isaiah further describes God’s mercy by proclaiming about the Messiah “He has anointed me to bring good news, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives, comfort those who mourn; giving them flowers instead of ashes, oil of gladness instead of sadness and a mantle of praise instead of fainting…that He may be glorified.”
Found in our original condition we are, as my kids would say, “a hot mess” and scripture would say “we are pitiable and full of misery”. BUT God extended His mercy towards us in that while we were still in our sin He had mercy on us, and that mercy was translated into the grace by which we are saved through Jesus Christ. As a result of our personal salvation, we should then feel for others what God felt first toward us, compassion. |
Meet the Board
Heather Patterson
History with CFH: My husband, Jason and I have been leading Growing Kids classes for about 10 years and love working with new families, encouraging them in their parenting. My first experience with a Contact Mom was so positive that I knew if ever the opportunity ever arose to offer help other moms in the same manner, I would be willing and as a result became a Contact Mom 10 years ago. In the summer of 2013 the CFH Board asked if I would prayerfully consider serving in the capacity of a Board member. So here I am, serving as Treasurer and working on getting myself acclimated to this responsibility and so blessed to be working with a group of such great godly women!
Family: I am the wife to a wonderful husband, Jason, who blesses me daily for nearly 16 years. We have four terrific kids: Jack [13], Grace [10], Katelyn and Elliana our 4 year old twins that we added to our family through adoption in the summer of 2012. We have experienced new blessings and challenge, but are delighted to have two more beautiful daughters.
Occupation: Aside from full time wife and mother, most days you will find us all at home in Iowa, as we have chosen to homeschool our kids. What we didn’t realize in the process of teaching our children is how much we would learn and how much there is to learn in God’s big story! We also have a home building business which is based out of our house, so it’s a pretty busy place!
Things I Enjoy: When I’m not helping with an algebra problem, working in the office for the business or just doing general mom duties … I love to enjoy a great mug of coffee, reading, cooking, doing crafty things, dates with the hubby and visits with friends. But most days we are enjoying life as a family, playing games, reading great books and wondering where the time has gone! |
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