Elisa Morgan, President of MOPS International and author of "NAKED FRUIT: GETTING HONEST ABOUT THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT," shares her insights on spiritual growth and motherhood. This interview delves into how mothers can harness the fruit of the Spirit in their daily lives, despite the challenges they face.
MOPS International, which stands for Mothers of Preschoolers, was founded in 1973 in Denver, Colorado. It began as a small group aimed at supporting mothers during the crucial early years of their children's lives. Elisa Morgan joined this vibrant community as its first president in 1989, bringing a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to nurturing mothers spiritually and emotionally.
When Elisa took the helm of MOPS, her children were just three and five years old. Over the years, she has not only led the organization but also grown with it, experiencing the ups and downs of motherhood firsthand. Her family now includes her husband of over twenty-five years, her adult children, and a grandchild, all cohabitating and enriching each other's lives.
In "NAKED FRUIT," Elisa Morgan challenges the common misconception that Christian living is merely about being nice. Instead, she emphasizes that true Christianity embodies the fruit of the Spirit—qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These traits reflect a deeper alignment with Christ rather than superficial niceties.
The book is structured to provide manageable reflections and exercises for busy mothers, helping them to open their hearts to spiritual growth. Each chapter concludes with "Fruit for Thought" sections designed to engage readers in practical spirituality that fits into their hectic lives.
Elisa points out that being a spiritual leader in the family doesn't mean enforcing a facade of niceness. It's about embodying the qualities of Jesus in authentic ways. This might mean showing love and kindness but also standing firm in one's values and beliefs, much like Jesus did.
Elisa encourages mothers to focus on the bigger picture—whether they and their children are growing to resemble Jesus more with each passing day. This perspective shifts the focus from perfection to growth, from niceness to genuine spiritual depth.
Elisa reiterates that the growth of spiritual fruits is not solely up to individuals. Rather, it involves a cooperative effort with God. Mothers, and indeed all Christians, are called to connect with Jesus and allow God to cultivate these qualities within them.
For more insights and to purchase "NAKED FRUIT: GETTING HONEST ABOUT THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT," visit Amazon.
Lisa M. Hendey, the interviewer, is a mother, webmaster, and avid reader who manages several websites including CatholicMom.com.
This interview not only sheds light on Elisa Morgan's personal and professional life but also offers valuable guidance for anyone looking to deepen their spiritual life in the midst of everyday challenges.
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