Daily Praise:
“James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, ‘Sons of Thunder'”
Mark 3:1
I smile every time I read the verse Mark 3:1. Jesus gives the nickname “Sons of Thunder” to two young men. Any parent or teacher of boys or active children knows how rambunctious some children can be. When active children get together there is nonstop laughter, pranks, and high energy. Trying to stay a step ahead is difficult yet fun.
Mark 3:1 tells me that Jesus has a sense of humor. Can’t you just see the twinkling in Jesus’ eyes as he smiled and said, ‘”Sons of Thunder.”‘ Just picture these two young men running with zeal, maybe even in the way of others to get there first. The Aramaic name “Boanerges” denotes a fiery and destructive zeal as of a thunderstorm. Another word to describe “Sons of Thunder” is commotion. Jesus knew their personalities and enjoyed them for who they were. We too should understand the temperaments of our children. When we lovingly use humor with our children an environment of joy and an atmosphere of contentment will surround our families.
Jesus also provides us with an example of how to harness the energy of the active child. He gave direction, exhibited patience, and provided encouragement. So many times our energy wears out before that of our children. We should consider the example that Jesus gave us and think twice before reacting.
Ideas to Increase Energy of Mothers with Preschoolers and
Early Elementary Children
- Getting rest will help with energy and patience level. Try to keep your bedtime and that of your children on a schedule. Easier said than done, but routine is important.
- Swapping childcare with a friend for a morning each week can bring renewed energy.
- Plan activities with another mom where you both can talk yet have fun watching your children play together.
- Sign up for an exercise class that provides a child care that you trust while you exercise.
- Plan activities that you enjoy doing with your children. Swimming, crafting, biking, camping or cooking together are just a few ideas. Build enjoyable memories while raising children. This provides a form of relaxation. Remember the process is important so be flexible because things usually do not go as planned.
- Outside activities burn energy and provide fun.
Jesus’ Examples of Working with Energetic People
- Jesus gives clear directions. Children need to know what is expected. They also need to know how to do what you are asking. Make sure that the skill, chore, or task that has been asked has been clearly not only asked but demonstrated. Remember that there are visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners. Knowing your child’s learning style will help you give directions that your child will more clearly understand.
- To increase patience allow for time with God. Jesus, our example, always got alone and spent time with His Father. Writing a verse on a card that you can place in front of the kitchen sink or post in our car can keep your focus in the correct place. “Perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee”. Isaiah 26:3
- Jesus gave the rowdy boys an endearing name as a means of encouragement to them. This also illustrated to the people around (the other disciples) that these boys were to be valued even though they were at times unruly or over zealous.
Parents of active children need many things. By looking at the example that Jesus provides, gives us a plan and hope. These active children will grow up. Just think, when all that energy is directed to serving God what an impact they will make!
Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,
Cathy Jo Johnson
