bam. crud. I hate it...

My family and I were walking through Big Lots today. We slowly made our way up and down isle after isle filled with nothing but toys. Stopping at a section of girly things, my daughter Jillian (3) spotted a chest full of princess dress-up attire. She said, "I like that... I want that." I thought about how great it would feel to see her open that chest on Christmas morning, but I couldn't help but think something else. My children are 3 and 2. They are still learning about sharing and, more importantly, appreciation. I know they don't fully understand these concepts, so while I want to give them everything, I don't want to spoil them either. They seem to destroy what toys they already have (especial little J) and fight over the stupidest things. I have actually seen them fight over a torn piece of cellophane. Then, it hit me. bam. crud. I hate it when this happens. As I am father to my children, God is Father to me. I see that position at work, a raise, surround sound system, Dodge Charger and say, "I like that... I want that." But, I'm still learning about sharing and more importantly appreciation. My current car has needed washing for about 3 months. My desk at work looks like an Office Depot chucked on it. And, I fight over the stupidest things like credit, recognition, and being "right". Ouch. What is God waiting to see me open? Is He waiting to see some appreciation for what He has already given me? As much as I love my children and want them to make me proud of there behavior, it cannot equal any fraction of God's love, or what expections of greatness He has for me. So, if you will excuse me, I'm going to go wash my Hyundai (and be thankful for it).