A Mother’s Day Blessing

As I type this, tomorrow is Mother’s Day. Two months ago today, my mom stepped into heaven into the arms of Jesus. This will be a strange Mother’s Day as I am so used to calling her. I could still hear her voice if I play a voicemail, but I only have a few of those. And of course, it’s not the same.

Mother’s Day hasn’t been anything like it was when our kids were young. We used to visit both grandmothers and go out to dinner after church. I was surrounded by those I love, and hopefully our moms felt the same. Life has a way of changing our circumstances.

Yet I know that whatever I’m facing this year, there are a host of women out there who are facing struggles greater than mine. Happy families are common on Facebook, but so often the photos we see there are not what is really going on behind the scenes. We have a great way of putting on a happy face, don’t we?

But I’m thinking of the women who want to be moms, but can’t. At least not yet. And waiting can seem like forever.

Or the moms who have lost a child. A friend is a grieving mom survivor who has a heart for those who are newly bereaved. Not a fun place to be on Mother’s Day.

Or the single moms who wish they could give their child/children more but they are always exhausted and can’t always be what their child needs.

Or the grandmothers who long to be close to their grandchildren, but miles separate them.

And worse, the mom whose child has shut her out, and she would do just about anything to restore what’s been lost.

Or perhaps the young mom has a mother who refuses to be there for her in her new role as parent. Estrangement can go both ways, yes?

Then there are the moms who perhaps don’t feel worthy of the title because they chose to end a pregnancy. Is she still loved by those who know and don’t agree? Does she grieve a choice she can’t undo? Is she even allowed to think of herself as a mother?

I understand the desire to honor mothers. The Bible was the first place where honoring mother and father is mentioned. God ordained that we do so and made this command the first commandment with a promise.

“so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

Ephesians 6:3

Every loving mom wants to feel honored and respected and loved by her children. Most women, especially those in ancient times, but even today, want to bear children. It’s part of the way we are made. I know it’s not true for everyone, but since creation it’s been true for most.

So to all mothers who might read this today, and to those of you who want that title and are still waiting, whether your mother is still living or your children are all in a good place in life, I pray that God will hold you close today. May you feel His presence no matter what your personal life looks like. May He bless you with loving arms to hold you, loving words to affirm your worth, and His love to remind you that He will always want you. No matter where life takes you. No matter what your current circumstances, good or not so good.

God gifted you with a mother. None of us would be here without one. So if she is still living, I hope you will reach out to her and tell her you love her. A day will come when you won’t have that privilege. I hope each one of you will remember that life is short, and she is precious. If you are at odds with her, please make it right while you still can.

Happy Mother’s Day