Last night, while we were reading stories before bed, Natalie smiled at me and said, “I’m so happy!”

I smiled back, “Why are you so happy?”

“Because you are here with me,” was her heart-melting reply.

*Sigh* I love that girl!

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about motherhood. It is such an incredible privilege and responsibility…one that I am so very thankful to have.

Motherhood has also given me a different perspective on being a child of God.

The love I feel for Natalie is unlike any other kind of love. It is a love that accepts her fully as she is, while still nurturing her and teaching her as she grows. My love for her doesn’t depend on circumstances. She can’t earn my love but she can’t lose my love either. I love her simply because she is my daughter.

Isn’t it the same with God’s love for us?

He loves me simply because I am His daughter. I did nothing to earn His love and I can do nothing to lose His love.

His love for me is full and lasting and complete. He loves me so much that He sent Jesus to die for my sins (1 John 3:16), for although His love is freely given, my forgiveness was bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20).

And as much as I love my daughter, His love for me is even greater because I am an imperfect human and He is perfect God. That is an overwhelming thought!

But there’s another part of my identity as a child of God that is sometimes more of a challenge.

Consider this: as a mom I make choices for Natalie based on my perspective and understanding, which is above hers. I make decisions with her best interests in mind, even if she doesn’t like it. She might cry because I won’t let her eat ice cream as her dinner, but part of my responsibility in caring for her is to keep her healthy.

Likewise, I am God’s child and His perspective and understanding is far above mine (Isaiah 55:8-9). I know this is true but, I’ll be honest, it’s tough sometimes! I’ve had my crying child moments before and I’m sure there are more to come.

I am humbled by the reminder, through my role as a mother, of my role as a child as well. I know God is in control and that He has my very best interests in mind.

I am thankful for this gift of motherhood for so many reasons, but today I am especially thankful that it is a daily reminder of God’s love for me as His child.

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name”

John 1:12

As I think again about the sweet words Natalie said to me last night, it is my prayer that I reflect the same feelings toward my Father.

Oh Lord, I am so happy you are here with me!