| |
 Denise Marotta Lopes
Denise Marotta Lopes is a daughter of the King, a woman who is loved by her heavenly Father. It is her joy to be a wife, and mother of two grown children, and to serve those whom God brings into her life. It is her heart's desire to see people so consumed by the love of God that they pour out onto others, and are set free to walk out their destinies.
She has written a book titled "Who's Sitting on Your Nest? The Virtues of Stay-at-Home Motherhood". It focuses on the joys of stay-at-home motherhood, and the benefits of a life invested in this ministry.
The book was written to affirm those who have chosen to mother full-time and to encourage those who may be considering the call to do so. It takes the reader through the decison-making process, the value of motherhood, and the practical aspects of carrying out the mission.
Denise is an avid lover of Jesus, dedicated intercessor, author, teacher, and speaker.
|
|
|
|
LIVE FOR THE MOMENTS
by Denise Marotta Lopes
I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
Psalm 34:1 NIV
I had a friend, Ellyn, who would point to her forehead and tell me to remember the important things right there---in the forefront of my mind. Focusing on the things that really matter, puts everything in perspective. Doing this creates a window that allows a glimpse of an otherwise hidden world. In the case of mothering, it is helpful to look at these special moments to see the results of your sacrifice, commitment and obedience, all borne out of love.
One example of such a moment is when Joe and I went food shopping and Angela and Joey thanked us! Another is the Christmas many years ago when we could only afford to buy plastic sleds for the kids, and nothing else. Angela looked a little sad, but she smiled and happily put Joey on the green sled and pulled him around inside of the house. She did it more for us and to show her thanks, rather than disappointment. I will never forget it.
I recall a time after surgery when I was experiencing depression. I way lying in bed when Joey, age 12, came in with a tray. On it was a cup of tea and a bite to eat. He also included a note, which said, "Happy is a man whose sins are forgiven...Coffie(sic) cake is optional." How precious!
Another of these special moments was when Angela was 17. She told me that she appreciated the two kiwis I put in her lunch. Not remembering this, I asked her for details. She said that I had given her a kiwi to take to school. When she opened her lunchbag, the other kids were interested in the strange fruit, and wanted to try some. She gave most of it away and missed out on her portion. It was on her mind, so when she got off the bus that day, she asked me to give her two kiwis the next day. One was for her and one to share with others. That may seem like something small and insignificant, but it was important to my 7 year old daughter. While this event occurred years ago, she recalled it vividly all these years later!
Joey, at age 16, shared how much he enjoyed our hikes at Stokes State Forest and walks and fishing at Lake Aeroflex in New Jersey. When he was in kindergarten, he and I took a different hike each month of the year to observe the changes in the environment throughout the various seasons. We still talk about the fox we saw at one particular location, and how we ran laughing from the scene!
Spending special moments together develps relationship. It creates the foundation for the children to share important details of their lives. This comes from an investment in the little things--those special moments.
This article is an excerpt from my book, Who's Sitting On Your Nest? The Virtues of Stay-at-Home Motherhood. To obtain a copy, please visit my site, Momma-d.com
|
...Tedd Tripp speaks on parenting...
Comments and Discussion Wall
