Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and recognize mothers. For some; however, Mother’s Day is a very emotional and broken time. Mother’s Day was first celebrated in 1908. A woman by the name of Anna Jarvis began a campaign to officially recognize mothers after the death of her mother for their contributions to society. As Mother’s Day began to be promoted and commercialized, Anna Jarvis was very outspoken against it and tried to stop the celebrated day. It was too late because the businesses were benefiting from the sale of gifts and flowers.
Emotional and Broken
Years ago my two daughters and I attended a Beth Moore conference in Birmingham. I was thinking it would be a great time in the Word and some refreshing for our souls. Both girls were married and childless. My oldest daughter had just had a ‘miscarriage’. As it happened, Beth Moore’s daughter had just birthed Beth’s first grandchild. She showed pictures and talked extensively about the baby or so I thought. Of course, I was happy for Beth Moore in celebrating the birth of her grandchild, but I was fighting tears because my heart was broken for my daughter.
Hannah
There are many Biblical mothers that teach us valuable lessons. One that comes to my mind is Hannah. Hannah was childless and grieved deeply. Her husband had married a second wife who birthed many children. In I Samuel 1, it tells us that her husband loved her greatly and did special things to show his love, but he did not understand her grief. Hannah went to the sanctuary to pray, deeply hurt and weeping. Eli, the priest, was watching her and accused her of being drunk in the sanctuary. He didn’t understand her either. She felt so alone in her grief.
It is Hard
I’m not against Mother’s Day. It is a special time to remember our mothers. It’s also a very difficult time for those who have not been able to birth a child for whatever reason. It is hard for those mothers who have lost a child and the hole in their heart is big. For those mothers whose child has gone astray and yet to return, it is hard. It is difficult for those who have recently lost their mother and haven’t finished the grieving process. My heart cries for those hurting this Mother’s Day.
The Only One
I do not fully understand what some are going through because I have not walked in their shoes. I imagine it is most difficult. Hannah had reached bottom and fell on her knees to the only One who could understand.
I Samuel 1:11, LORD of Hosts, if You will take notice of Your servants affliction, remember and not forget me…”
His Peace
After Hannah’s time with the LORD, the Bible tells us that she went on her way and no longer looked despondent. She knew He heard her pray. He comforted her and she trusted Him no matter the outcome of her situation. His peace was felt in her heart.
Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
This Mother’s Day celebrate your mom. Appreciate your children as they honor you. Be sensitive to those whose hearts are heavy. Know that God loves you and He hears you. Bow on your knees thanking Him for all your blessings. Love one another.
Jacki Velasquez On My Knees
Paula Wallace
For more treading water blog post https://www.treadingwatertiljesuscomes.com/2015/10/01/mentoring/
I agree that Mother’s Day is joyful, yet sentimental day. I was blessed with an awesome Godly mother whom I miss very much. Thank you for reminding us of the “commercialization “of the day.God bless you!