Oops... Here I Go Again!

Last night, Susan (my wife) and I were sitting in the car waiting for Christina (our 14 year old daughter) to get out of youth. They were late getting out. Oh how I hate when things don't happen on schedule. Can you relate to that? It is in my personality. I am wired that way. But, just because I'm wired that way doesn't excuse my behavior.

Susan and I were having a nice conversation... just me and her. I should have been enjoying the time together... but, I was upset about Christina (and the whole youth gathering) being late. Susan was sharing with me about some of the things going on at school regarding her Bible class. Don't get me wrong, I was interested. I love hearing about what my wife does. She is so creative and called to do what she does. BUT, at what I thought was the end of her story, I jumped in and griped and complained about the lateness of the hour. Did we have anything pressing to do? No. Was this a life changing lateness? No.

Susan had not finished her story. I had been paying more attention to the time than her story. I hurt her feelings. I don't blame her for being upset with me. I missed a great opportunity to connect with Susan. That time will never be back. I blew it.

Romans 12:10 (ESV) says, "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Instead of being worried about the time, I should have been in tune with her needs putting her first above any inconvenience I might have been experiencing. 

Oh, what lessons God continues to teach me. Through Christ living in us, we can overcome our personality quirks that get us in trouble. I was focused on getting my needs met instead of Jesus. I am glad God is always showing us His grace and mercy in these situations.

My prayer is that Susan  is practicing Ephesians 4:32 (ESV) "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." I know she is, she has had to forgive me more than once.