An Open Letter to the Mom on the Church Pew

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Dear Mama,

I see you sitting there with your kids on the church pew.

I know this season isn’t easy. This morning was probably a struggle to get your kids out of bed. Your son may have fought you about wearing that fancy shirt you laid out the night before (so you gave in to them wearing the wrinkly old Batman one). Maybe your morning was like mine and there was a battle between siblings (may the brother who grabs the last French toast stick WIN).

You’re probably a lot like me, wondering why you even bother to load up your tribe and shoo them into the building. You question why you wrestle them onto the pew just to throw them snacks and tell them to shhhhh for 45 minutes straight, praying that the crayons you brought will keep them quiet (please Lord don’t let the crinkling fruit snack wrapper be too loud).

I see your tired eyes and your look of defeat.

Sweet Mama, you’re doing a great job. You are doing REALLY important things and while you are in the thick of it all and it may not feel like it, you are.

Children’s voices and baby cries are a joyful noise in a church building. It’s an honor to have you there and even though the sermon might be over your little ones’ heads, you’re teaching them well. You’re reflecting a beautiful image and that is to be praised. Simply being present with your kids is teaching them that worship is important.

I love that despite your children’s crazy schedules and routines, you make it a point to be there when the doors are open. There may be times when you feel like YOU personally don’t need to be there, but you choose to be there in case someone else needs YOU. You’re showing your kids what being there for other people looks like. Thank you for being there, even if it might not be convenient. One day I might need you, just like you might need me.

I know this season isn’t easy. I’m in the thick of it with you and I appreciate the way we can encourage each other. This “Mama” thing is a crazy ride. I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “the days are long and the years are short.” We are building the foundation for our kids and for that I am so thankful and encouraged.

You are bringing up the future church. Your church pew commotion is beautiful and worthy of praise.

3 COMMENTS

  1. This is an important life skill that you are teaching your children. In addition to the weekly formal worship and the reunion with church family, children who have been taught to participate appropriately in a church service will also wait patiently and respectfully in line, sit quietly in a theater performance, and be members of a respectful audience in other life situations.

  2. Another great read Jenna! I am so very proud of you! Your wonderful daughter,Momma, Wife and encourager. Keep up the good work. I love you! Your Momma

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