But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

Part of it is this crazy revved up time of year for children. Part of it is just sibling life. Part of it is acquiring two siblings overnight after nine years alone. Whatever it is, today it hit a fever pitch. The children have been squabbling about toys, turf, and tiddly stuff.

Since waking up on Monday morning, it’s been one roller coaster ride after another. A looooong drive, not sleeping in our own beds, lots of food, toys and presents, another looooong drive home, and more, more, more!!

Each meal hubby and I have prepared sees the kids barely served before wanting seconds – and we’ve hardly had a seat yet!

Then, it’s a constant parade of, “Daddy, I need more batteries!” “Mama, can you fix this for me?” On and on and on it goes!

To top it all off, we have “The Town Criers” – the constant tattling. Finally, we just had to tell the kids how inconsiderate they’ve been. We understand they are really just kids, but at the same time, part of our job as parents is to give our children feedback to help them understand their behavior in context.

I had to have a talk with my oldest, because he’s really struggling with the mantle of “Big Brother.” He wants to do a good job, but he’s afraid of not telling when he should and telling when he shouldn’t. Though we’ve given him repeated examples of each, it’s still a hard thing.

So, we prayed.

We asked God for wisdom to know the difference between what to tell and what not to; the courage to be a good big brother; and help and guidance. My oldest son and I have often talked about the kind of big brother Jesus must have been, and that he should try to imitate Him as best as he can. I also told him that his dad and I know that he’s just a kid and that he’s not going to be perfect and that’s okay.

As Peter Parker (Spiderman’s alter ego) was once told, “With great power comes great responsibility.” I think every big brother and big sister realizes the enormity of that statement.