.png)
CHRISTIAN LIVING TODAY
On May 9, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day, establishing a national holiday. He called it a time for public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.
I recall the handmade cards crafted with care and crayon, and the handpicked flowers presented with wide, proud smiles. This day honors the unwavering love, dedication and sacrifice of mothers everywhere. Though times change, the heart of Mother’s Day remains timeless, fostering gratitude and deep respect.
Yet, we must also acknowledge that Mother’s Day can stir sorrow. It’s a difficult day for many—for those who have suffered loss, and those who may have had painful or absent relationships with their own mothers.
The Bible tells us to honor both father and mother, but it also offers other motherly reminders.
Isaiah 66:13 states that God loves and comforts us as a mother consoles a child.
Psalm 35:14 says He feels and understands our feelings “in sorrow as if I were mourning for my mother.”
In John 19:27, Jesus shows love and concern for His mother, entrusting her to the apostle John.
Psalm 22:9 reads, “You are the one who brought me out from the womb and made me feel secure on my mother’s breasts.”
He is present and closely involved in every part of the mother’s experience.
Mothers deeply influence their children and homes. They shape the emotional warmth and culture of family life. Most mothers keep the calendar and manage the daily rhythm of the household, planning with the family’s wellbeing in mind. Mothers step up and do what’s needful—they rise early, stay up late and step in wherever and whenever they are needed.
I just returned from visiting my granddaughter, whose little boy had his first birthday. I watched her thoughtfulness, planning and sacrifice—especially sleep. I saw her patiently cut tiny pieces of meat so he could enjoy them and watch as he discovered new tastes.
Regardless of our earthly parental experience, we can be secure in the love, care and watch God provides. He does not abandon. He does not forsake. He does not abuse or neglect.
He is there, and He loves us.
Happy Mother’s Day to all. Until next week, Anita Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “ Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.
