Honoring Your Mother

Read This: “My child, guard the commands of your father and do not forsake the instruction of your mother. Bind them on your heart continually; fasten them around your neck. When you walk about, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; when you wake up, they will talk to you. For the commandments are like a lamp, instruction is like a light, and rebukes of discipline are like the road leading to life” (Proverbs 6:20-23)

Think: Have you ever stood in line behind a mother and her children at the grocery store? Or volunteered in the nursery for a couple hours? There’s no better reminder of the amount of physical effort it takes just to keep the little ones alive for the first few years. And as kids grow, that hurdle is replaced by the more complicated issues and moms only wish they could make it all better with a Barbie, band-aid, and a kiss.

The Webster dictionary defines the word mother as a female parent; a woman in authority; or maternal tenderness or affection. This seems sadly lacking when we reflect on everything wrapped up in this important responsibility. For most of us, our mothers brought us into adulthood, made sure we were fed and clothed, doctored us when we needed to be, got us through elementary, middle school, and high school—however messy and lengthy that process might have been. She is one of the key players in getting you to where you are today and shaping the person you have become and have potential to be. She is a gift.

On the other hand, maybe your family is a little complicated, as they often are these days, and mother’s day feels a little awkward. Or maybe your mom doesn’t fit the typical Mother’s Day card scenario. After all, mothers are only human; they all struggle and fail sometimes. For you, the command to honor your mother maybe more challenging but not less relevant. She too is a gift—equally precious because she is part of God’s plan for your life. Embrace her, love her, and be thankful for her.

If you ever doubt a mother’s sacrifice for her children, think of that mom at the grocery store. Imagine that scene playing out with slight variations for 12 to 14 hours a day, 365 days a year—and she loves them more than they can imagine. Not just for the first years, not just until her children are 18, but for the rest of her life. Once a mother, always a mother.

Ask: Knowing everything you know about your mom, how can you show your appreciation for her on Mother’s Day?

Pray: Spend some time thanking God for your mom and the specific role she played in your journey to Christ (directly or indirectly).