My daughter, Caroline, is expecting her first child. This has me thinking a lot about parenting and remembering when she was little. There are a lot of things I wish I’d known before I had children. There are times I wish I could have a do-over.

I also think I got a few things right.

Caroline didn’t respond well to the usual rewards or consequences, so I creatively discovered something that did help. She needed to feel connected, understand clearly what was expected, and practice the desired response or behavior. We called these do-overs.

Do-overs were not a punishment. They were simply an invitation to try again. So, if she spoke unkindly or handled a situation poorly, I would say, “Do-over.”

We’d both pause. I’d explain or demonstrate what I hoped to see instead, and then she’d practice it. No lectures. No shame. Just another chance. When she finished, I’d smile and say, “Perfect!” Then we’d move on.

Looking back, I realize those little moments taught her more than just expected behaviors. They also taught her that mistakes aren’t the end of the story. They’re opportunities to learn.

I believe God’s parenting is a lot like that. Yes, our choices still have consequences. Hurtful words can wound relationships. Fear can keep us from experiencing peace. Selfishness can leave us feeling isolated. But God’s response is never to pull away from us. Instead, God draws near. Jesus shows us what love looks like in human flesh. He demonstrates another way to live, then patiently invites us to try again.

“Do-over.”

We apologize.

“Do-over.”

We choose kindness this time.

“Do-over.”

We forgive instead of holding a grudge.

When we snap at a spouse, become impatient in traffic, or simply fail to love well, we can imagine God gently smiling and saying,

“Do-over.”

Not with disappointment. With hope.

The Christian life isn’t about getting everything right the first time. It’s about being lovingly formed over a lifetime. Every sunrise is another invitation. Every breath is another chance. Every moment is another do-over. Why? Because God loves you unconditionally!

Annie

Prayer
Loving God, thank You for never giving up on us, for teaching us a better way, and for inviting us to grow in love. Amen.