Yesterday was my oldest
son's birthday.
I remember well the day he was born.
But two things stand out.
First, I made the mistake of getting a Whopper from Burger King on the way to the hospital.
My wife thought it would be a good idea for me to get something to eat, but neither of us considered the impact my onion breath would have on her as I fulfilled my role as 'breathing coach' during labor and delivery.
Second, and more serious... when a woman brings a child into the world, she
does so with amazing difficulty.
Yes, there is lots of anticipation... but with it is anxiety, fear, pain and tons of effort.
... And bless my wife -- she did it six times!
As I thought about this yesterday, it occurred to me... it's this way with so many of the good things we might bring into this world.
There is no easy button.
It's a struggle.
There's a need for exertion.
This -- of course -- is why the Bible describes our lives as such things as a race and a fight (2 Tim.4:7).
You have to keep going.
But realizing the reality of the struggle and embracing it liberates you and emboldens you.
It positions you to bring something good and glorious into the world...
... because it sets you free to focus on what God has given you to do... no matter how hard it might be.