Parenting is not only about the work it takes to raise up a child, but it’s also about continuing the work of being raised in Christ. Stripping back our innermost layers of selfishness and laying our pride exposed. Seeing ourselves as the center of our own personal schedule is no longer an option. Feeling like we have power over anything quickly vanishes into thin air. Parenthood pushes us to surrender and accept God’s sovereign control.

Parenting sanctifies us. 

Parenting shows us our sinful attitudes. When plans are ruined, when another blowout spoils the perfect outfit you chose, when your toddler finally decides to eat but it comes at the cost of sacrificing your meal, when you’re awakened by screams communicating the need to just be held All. Night. Long.

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Surrendering is never easy, but relinquishing my independence? My plans? My children? And to do it joyfully?! Now that’s on a whole other level.

Parenting sanctifies us.

Parenting reveals our willingness to serve.  We serve when we’re nauseous. When we’re overcome with sorrow. When we’re ridden with guilt and shame. When we doubt that anyone is going to make it through the day alive. When we just want to give up. The serving never stops. And as we cry out in desperation in the middle of the night, we hear a gentle reminder . . .

I never stop serving you. I never stop giving of myself. I never stop being your Father. I never stop being your Savior. I never stop being your Comforter. I never stop sustaining you. 

Parenting makes us more like Jesus.

Jesus welcomes interruptions. He is slow to anger but hands out fierce instruction when it is necessary. He is patient. He is forgiving. He gave his very life. He has never once stopped serving or loving. 

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Parenting sanctifies us and sanctification is rarely an easy process. There is no life hack that helps you skip the hard steps. But by keeping our eyes on Jesus, our example, our author and perfector of faith, we can enjoy the hard. We can thrive in the lonely. We can rejoice in the night. Because it’s all for the single purpose of bringing glory and honor to the giver of the title parent.