This was my day, and I was all smiles

It took a holiday to do it, but our family was finally all together again. As I welcomed them all into the house, I anticipated the low hum of great adult conversation as children giggled and played quietly in the background. But only minutes after they arrived, the reality slowly, but surely, disintegrated into bedlam.

My two-year-old grandson and I battled almost immediately over just how many toys were coming out of the toy box. Broken-hearted at this perceived betrayal by his beloved grandmother, there was nothing left for him to do but throw himself, crying, to the floor. Repeatedly. After the third time, I was ready to join him. The house is small, and this family gathering of 8 adults and 4 kids under 6 years old had us bursting at the seams with people.

Not to be outdone, the 3, 4 and 6 year olds started running, shrieking and jumping off the stairway landing and break dancing into the only small space in the living room not covered in toys (yes, we finally gave in and dumped the toy box). With all the chaos, it was hard to hear myself think, let alone enjoy a quiet conversation with my adult children.

This beloved grandmother was no longer smiling. I was literally awash in self-pity. I thought, What happened to my day? What happened to me?

Finding Peace Amidst Chaos

I looked upwards and prayed a silent prayer, Lord, please help me. And the Lord was gracious to me. He did not eliminate the chaos, but he gave me new eyes to see the kids’ joy in spending time together and new ears to hear them call to each other in familiarity. He awakened my heart to rejoice in the craziness that ensues with lots of big and little people in a small house. He gave me 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, reminding me, Be joyful always, pray at all times, be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from your life in union with Christ Jesus. And I got my smile back.

If you’re struggling with failed plans and a loss of control today, I encourage you to meditate on God’s Word for restoration of joy and contentment. These four Bible verses will get you started:

1. You will show me the path that leads to life; your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever. — Psalm 16:11 (GNTD)
2. And with all his abundant wealth through Christ Jesus, my God will supply all your needs. — Philippians 4:19 (GNTD)
3. May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. — Romans 15:13 (GNTD)
4. Your mighty deeds, O Lord, make me glad; because of what you have done, I sing for joy.  How great are your actions, Lord! How deep are your thoughts! — Psalm 92:4-5 (GNTD)