This tip is a relatable story from a Crazy Cool Mom – we hope it inspires you.
She spends a lot of time in her minivan, affectionately named "Sheila." It’s the space where many important conversations take place, but also where arguments sometimes break out, thanks to the six of them being crammed into such a small space.
But despite the chaos, she cherishes their time in that van. It’s where they've worshipped together, cried, laughed, and lived life. There was one day, though, that stands out in her mind. She had a hectic morning filled with appointments and rushing around with the kids, leaving her feeling frazzled. She knew she wasn’t at her best as a mom that day. When the kids started fighting over something that seemed pretty trivial, she snapped. She yelled at them to stop fighting and demanded silence the rest of the way home. In an instant, her frustration shifted the entire atmosphere of the car.
Immediately, she felt like a total mom fail. She knew the argument wasn’t that big of a deal, but because she was stressed and, in a rush, she let it spill over onto them.
As she continued driving, she prayed, asking the Lord to help her make things right. And that’s when a scripture came to mind: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)
She was taken aback. “Lord, I just lost my temper! I didn’t follow your example!” she thought. But in that moment, she realized she had a choice: she could either remain silent and let the drive end on a tense note, or she could turn this into a teachable moment for her kids.
Paul’s words to the Corinthians about imitating Christ reminded her that, as parents, they are called to model Christ-like behavior—even when they don’t get it right. Showing patience, love, and humility gives kids a real-life example of following Jesus. And when they mess up, it’s an opportunity to show them how to repent, apologize, and own their mistakes.
She wasn’t a perfect mom in that moment, but she serves a perfect God. Even though the drive started with frustration, it ended with a meaningful conversation about emotions, repentance, and the power of humility.
Her hope is that this experience would encourage other parents to see everyday moments—like car rides—as opportunities for discipleship. And to never be afraid to apologize when they get it wrong. The kids will notice, and the lesson will stick.
