Day 50, 7 weeks "Set Free"

Lord, Your Word is full of the theme of exile and restoration - the Israelites in Egypt coming to the promised land, those captive in Babylon returning to Jerusalem, the prodigal son coming home! If I feel confined, it is because I'm on a journey to true freedom in Christ.  As I submit to this challenge of staying home with my infant, You are preparing me to "return" someday to a better life than I've ever known.  "He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him" (Psalm 126). Thank You, Lord, that there will be a harvest for each sacrifice I make for this child.  Just as a seed falls and dies in order to grow the plant,  I am learning to really love by dying to my own needs and desires.

Tip: plant a tree for each child.  Even if you move someday, it will be a representation of your celebration of this new life, maybe for generations!!