Do you know what biblical way love is shown for God? The answer comes in 1 John 5:3 with these words, “This is love for God: to obey His commands.” This message focuses on mothers but is written for each of us to ponder: how are Biblical principles reflected in our lives?
Mothers are honored and saluted with celebrity status most often in the middle of May. Hallmark helps make their day special as do phone companies. Mother’s Day takes the cake for the greatest number of cards sold and phone conversations shared. Mothers are special, including those who embellish the title of step mom, mother in law, foster mother, or any other appropriate salute to a woman who cares for a child and continually bestows love upon them for as long as she lives. Motherhood comes naturally for many; others must experience this nobility through adoption or other means that bond mother and child miraculously. Whatever way God works it out for one to wear a crown symbolizing motherhood, it is with honor and appreciation they are celebrated on Mother’s Day…and every day.
I give thanks for my mother who loved and taught me to love, looked after and taught me to look after, persevered and taught me to persevere, stepped out of the boat of tradition and taught me to go forth in faith, lived the example of Christ and taught me to live out loud in love and do for others as I would have them do for me. Motherly love lingers forever…even when one’s mother is gone. Children’s hearts should grow fonder as their lives produce fruit that lengthens the family legacy.
I give thanks for my mother in law who loves me tenderly and continues to teach me life lessons that become more precious as she and I both grow older and closer. What a gift to treasure when a mother in law and daughter in law love deeply and delete ‘in-law’ from the title each honors with humbleness and dignity. This gift can’t be bought; yet, it brings blessings greater than gold or silver. I love Mom more with each new season we share.
I encourage those who do not love and honor their ‘in laws’ – whatever title it might be (father – mother – daughter or son in law) to pray and put forth much effort in fostering a close relationship. There is no sweeter joy than to share this sacred bond with one who became family by choice. In seasons past, my mother in law and I loved from a distance. Neither of us truly understood the other. Yet, in God’s time He showed us the beauty and blessings of sharing a mother – daughter bond. And I am so glad we opened our hearts to experience this amazing love.
The following Christian principles can help all families come closer to Christ and one another. Mothers reflecting these guidelines can create a positive witness in the home and encourage others in their walk of faith.
Keep God first and everything else will fall into place. Let your daily life win the respect of outsiders and family…don’t be dependent on anybody. 1 Thessalonians 4: 11-12
Be wise and make the most of every opportunity. Keep your conversation full of grace. Colossians 4: 5
Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble. 1 Corinthians 10: 31
Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another. Romans 13:8
This Mother’s Day is the perfect time to come closer to the Lord and loved ones. Never miss an opportunity to love one another and embrace the blessing of Jack Johnson’s lyrics…”it’s better when we’re together”! Happy Mother’s Day mother and mom…I love one here and one living in Heaven!