And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified. // Romans 8:30

Through blurry, tear-filled eyes I read the text message from my friend: “You are exactly the mother for this child. God chose you to be her mother for a reason.” I felt anything but qualified to be facing the trials of raising teenagers. That day found me particularly down. I was exhausted, scared, and unsure about what to do for my child. 

Those words from my friend changed my perspective, at least about who I was as my children’s mother. I still didn’t know what the next right step would be, or how to best meet the needs of my child in that situation. But the words affirmed a truth about my God-given role as a mother to the specific souls in my family.

God chose me to raise my children, to love and serve them to the best of my ability. He knows what He is about; my part is to say yes to His purpose for my life and trust in His graces for me along the way.

I took a deep breath (or twelve), washed the tear streaks from my face, and prayed, “Lord, help.” 

Another frequent prayer of mine begs for His grace: “Lord, you gave these children to me. You know their needs. Give me the grace to do what it takes to get through this challenge.”

He always does give the needed grace. It’s our reliance upon His grace that helps us progress in the spiritual life while we live our daily lives. His grace moves us each step of the way, from the calling to the justification (being made righteous, or holy) to the glory (sainthood!). 

Sister, the Father knows the unique struggles you and I face, no matter what our specific vocations entail. His plan is perfect, and His grace is more than enough to help you through each day’s challenges towards a life of holiness.