September 20, 2024

Where would we be without mothers? Nonexistent, or in a world of lost boys and girls.

Moms come in all shapes and sizes, colors and temperaments. All of God’s wonderful variety displayed in that wonderful role of motherhood.

Being a mom was one of my favorite roles in life. Giving birth to two great boys who have grown into two great young men.

As they grew, I made sure they had plenty of homemade cookies. But they had to eat good dinner and whatever kind of veggie made its way to the menu.

Sometimes we enjoyed a picnic in the back yard on a sunny day. A simple, fun outing sitting on our blanket made things interesting and different to little minds. One fine day after running quickly into the house after a forgot item, my toddler started screaming. As I ran to the rescue, to my astonishment, the six-month-old had scooted his way to his big brother and stole his peanut butter sandwich. Apparently, he was ready for solids no matter what the doctors said. The six-month-old was not about to be left out of any eating experiences. He actually ate whatever was on my husband’s plate including salad.

Another teaching moment came with sandwiches cut into triangles or squares. What little one doesn’t like tiny bite sized finger food?

My Husband

did not share my sentiments regarding sandwich shapes. In my absence the boys always said, “Momma always cuts our sandwiches in squares.” My husband’s curt irritated answer, “Do I look like your mom?” I can only imagine the disappointment of the moment. Oh well. They survived.

If you are currently in your mothering season, my hope is that you are enjoying the “too” short season. Yes, children do grow up fast.

And I hope that you are celebrated by your family.

One thing is for certain, mothers around the world do their best. Who knows what circumstance mommas are dealing with when they mess up?

Be sure you celebrate your mother if she is still living on this earth. I certainly miss my own mother on Mother’s Day.

Yes, I’m grateful to be treated well by my two boys and husband. Then on Mother’s day they pile the icing on top.

After all, being a Proverbs 31 woman is a journey. None of us are perfect. But we sure do love our babies in our own special way.

Prayer for Mothers

Father, I lift up each mother to you this Mother’s Day season. Give each mother the strength, grace and power to raise their children in Your admonition. Be with each child who may not have had the mother they desired or needed, and heal each hurt in wounded hearts. Bless those mothers with empty arms who have lost their precious children too early, and the women who desired children but were unable to conceive. In Jesus name, Amen.

Scripture for Today

Hymn to a Good Wife

"A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She’s like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises.
She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She’s skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking.
She’s quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn’t worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise:
“Many women have done wonderful things, but you’ve outclassed them all!”
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised, is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves! Adorn her life with praises!" (Proverbs 31:10-31 MSG).

© 2021 Nanette M. Holloway-All Rights Reserved

featured photo by aditya-romansa-via unsplash

Other publications: Coping Skills for Caregivers

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