Nail Polish

This afternoon I wanted to paint my nails. My daughter walked into the bathroom while I was getting out the polish and I asked her if she wanted me to paint her nails, too. She insisted on painting her fingernails all by herself. Once she gets her mind set on something, it is hard to deter her. Thinking that she would probably end up asking me for help before too long, I agreed. While I brushed "iced coffee" on my toes, she had her little bottle from Claire's (her favorite store) in one hand and the brush in the the other. She completely covered her fingers and toes and made a huge mess. I have to say, it was pretty precious to watch. She concentrated so hard and she was so proud of herself when she finished.

Now, I'm sure that I could have done a much neater job than she did, but I had to remind myself that she wouldn't learn much of anything if I had done it for her. I think a lot of times that is how we all are. We have to learn from our mistakes. That doesn't mean that a mess won't be made in the process. Making mistakes can be very messy; it can be hard to clean up and there may be serious consequences.

But I find rest in knowing that God is so forgiving when we do mess up. He loves us no matter how big of a mess we've made. That is what is so awesome about grace. I am so thankful that no matter what I do, His grace is sufficient. He will love me unconditionally no matter what I do, no matter what mess I create.