Being a parent of two, coupled with long-term sleep deprivation, I have only a common word in my head - EXHAUSTION. Hence, more often than not, I have excuses to many imperfections, mistakes, anger explosions or temper. But today, I've seen a pair of graceful parents of three who didn't give in to exhaustion.
They were new to me and though we are arranged to be in the same cell group, our paths have never crossed. But today, while having lunch in the canteen, I saw how these parents' little acts may glorify our God.
The father saw a spill of curry on a table and went to take a cloth to clean it up, discreetly. He can just leave it alone because it was not him who had spilt it. But he chose to differ. It reminded me how I used to love the house of God, keeping it clean whether anyone was in sight of my act. But not anymore. I've grown weary. Not many cared, anyway.
"PIANG!!" There went the sound of a falling bowl, with spilt food. It's amazing how these parents reacted. No Lamentations, no scolding or whatsoever. The mom got up immediately and went to take a broom and dustpan and had the food swept away. The father winked at his son and asked, "Why?" His son smiled and moved his elbow slightly, probably trying to tell his father that he had accidentally pushed the bowl down with his elbow. Then, he continued to enjoy his chicken drumstick. After the family had left, I could find a spotless table - which again reminded me that loving God also meant loving his house.
As I turned around, I saw another table - with rice, a messed up baby chair and floor - an opportunity for the rats to be fed at night. Another pair of weary parents?
I can only comment on the patient parents of three who have revived my first love with Christ and prompt me to do better. Jesus had time for all who came to seek him. Why don't we have time for Him? Doing something for Christ doesn't mean it should be within the sights of others. And what's more, cleaning after our own usage is our responsibility.
When I went to the library, I saw librarians arranging books in accordance to the categories. I thanked God too for these people who worked tirelessly to maintain the library and what's more, they hadn't had their lunch when we had all enjoyed ours!
My husband has a friend who likes to say, "We want to live with first world facilities but we have third world mentality." How could we enjoy when we are here to take advantage of others? And what's the use of having better facilities when they'll be gone tomorrow with no concerns or responsibilities in caring for them?
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