Her Children Call Her Blessed

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31: 27 – 31

Happy Mother’s Day  to all you mothers and to those of you who have “mothered” us, our children, our grandchildren, and all the other children who are, or have been, blessed by your presence in their lives!

What an influence we mothers can have. When looking for cards, I saw this quote: “Mothers are the first impression of God’s love we will ever have.”

What a blessing, responsibility, and privilege to hold such a title. It is still the sweetest sound and most wonderful gift to hear Kelly and Scott call me “MOM”. Each and every day with them has brought special memories and much love, and I am so grateful for having had the opportunity to be their mom. And with the joys of being a grandparent, my years have been even more blessed. Kelly, I celebrate you today for the wonderful mother you are to our adorable grandsons and for the love you give to all of us.

This day not only brings to mind the joys of being a mother and grandmother and remembering so many cherished memories, but it also reminds us of so many other loving women in our lives. I celebrate my own precious mother whom I dearly loved and deeply miss. Recently, I heard the song, “If  I could hear my mother pray again,” and I was moved to tears as I thought of her loving presence in my life and her deep faith in God. I am so grateful for all she taught me about His love, strength, and grace.

I celebrate my mother-in-law, who has been a loving mother to Bob and me, and a loving grandmother to our children. Her enthusiasm for life, her positive attitude, and her trusting faith in God have taught all of us how to live with more contentment and gratitude.

I celebrate my dear sister Ruth, who has always been there when I needed her. Eighteen years older than me, she has been my other mom and a wonderful sister, but even more, she has been a faithful and loving friend. So many tears and so much joy we have shared through the years!

I honor the memory of my much loved sister, Doris, who taught me so much about persevering and having faith during difficult times. Her love of Scripture will always remind me to appreciate and value the gift of His promises to us.

I celebrate my sweet friend, Betty, who has been such a loving presence for many years, but especially since the passing of my own mother. Her gentle, kind spirit, and abiding faith have been such a blessing.

I celebrate those I call dear friends, who are only a phone call away, and have brought much laughter, strength, comfort, and joy along the way!

These wonderful women, who have been such an important part of my life, have lived truly beloved, respected, productive and honorable lives as they have so unselfishly and lovingly cared for others. They have been dedicated mothers and wives, have provided warm, loving homes for their families, and have done noble and great things in the eyes of God. They are to be celebrated and much praised for their work on this earth.

I know that you too have had, or are blessed presently to have, these amazing women in your life who have meant so much to you. May we remember them today – honor their memory, or, let those around you know how much they are appreciated and loved! Happy Mother’s Day!

 Prayer

Dear God, thank you for the beautiful souls of women who are or have been a part of our lives. Thank you for the love, encouragement, and inspiration they have given us. What lessons they teach us. May we take advantage of the opportunities you give us to love and care for those children who come into our lives. We thank you for the blessings of life. Amen