As Christian parents we need to stop carrying what isn’t ours to carry

When John Reynolds’ morning was derailed by his toddler and a set of scales, he realised how often we pick up burdens God never meant us to carry—and how to let go

I wonder if you’ve ever found yourself in a teaching moment with your kids and it suddenly dawns on you that the lesson you’re trying to impart to them is one that you have barely learned yourself? Don’t worry, it wasn’t toilet training. I don’t like to boast, but I’ve pretty much nailed that now.

The actual situation happened a few years ago, but it was a moment of revelation so significant, it hit me square between the eyes and has never left me since.

I was in my bedroom one morning, getting ready for the day, and doing my best to remain calm despite being accompanied by the whirlwind that was my then 3-year-old, Areli. I’m not entirely sure who is indoctrinating these kids, but for some reason every single toddler seems to be of the firm belief that any parent who attempts their morning routine alone, must secretly be longing for the moral support and practical help of a little person who cannot even do these things for themselves.

I don’t know about you, but I regularly take on worries, concerns and burdens that aren’t mine to carry

Despite my overstimulation (and subsequent prayers that God would provide my daughter with a mute button) I was being patient and gentle and calm.

I had just washed, finished my (very masculine) skin care routine and weighed myself, and I was now doing my best to get dressed - despite the belly flops, choke holds and body slams that my toddler seemed to have become an expert in overnight. She finally got off me, I sat up, and in the time it took for me to glance down and put my socks on, I looked up to find my daughter ……