U—Utensil. Yes, you are a tool…a vessel… in God’s hands. Always consider you are His hands in the life of your family.

II Corinthians 4:7. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

V—Volunteer. Invest yourself in the many spheres your child will inhabit. Help your child’s teacher, Sunday School teacher, coach. Be a Room Mother when you can. Go on field trips. Buy fund raiser items from other moms’ children. Let your children observe you giving of yourself to his friends and volunteering to help the other authorities in his life.

Romans 12: 13. Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

W—Workhorse. Like “Love” above, this needs no explanation. It is your job to care for your home and family. Do not feel “put upon,” when the labor falls to you. It’s true: someday you’ll give anything to have children again at your feet, making demands of you and your time. Serve well and with joy. It’s over sooner than you can imagine.

I Corinthians 15: 10. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed on me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.  

X—X-ray Technician. This does not refer to actual bones and joints. Physical injuries should be referred to radiologists. This term means you must “look inside” to find the real cause of whatever problem your child has. Sometimes her tears will not mean she’s being rebellious. She’s only tired or hungry. Always look beneath the surface to what the real issue is and treat that accordingly.

Proverbs 20:5. Counsel in the heart of a man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

Y—Yoke. You should be the “bond” or “tie” that joins the family together. Foster good relationships among your children and with you as parents. Don’t forget or neglect the extended family. Everyone will not play the same role or have the same level of influence, but make room and keep lines of communication open. Repair breaches, when possible, and never neglect to keep yourself “yoked” to the Lord, as He commanded in Matthew 11:29—“Take my yoke upon you and learn of me.”

Colossians 2: 2. That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

Z—Zealot. The word “zealot” often bears a negative connotation. In this case, “zealot” means an enthusiastic supporter…a “fan” of a good cause. Sometimes you’ll be the only fan, the only believer in your child’s dreams and chances of success. Be there to cheer him on.

Galatians 4: 18. But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.