Thank you, Moms

Mother's Day is eschewed by some as a Hallmark Holiday. I know that as it approached, I once again had mixed feelings.

Don't get me wrong.  I love my mother. She has been the best mom I could hope for, and if I'm any good at being a mom myself, it's because she taught me by example.  (She's actually an amazing woman, but that's another post, another day).

But for those whose moms aren't here any more, or for the women who have been unable to become mothers, this day can be a difficult one.

In church this morning, our children's ministry director used the day, once again, to celebrate the women and girlss who work in our children's ministry.  In that way, she celebrated not only the mothers in the congregation, but the spiritual mothers that many of the women in our church are to other people's children. I like this approach because it acknowledges that mothering isn't limited to actually giving birth or raising children in your home.  Many women are mothers by the way they love other people's kids.

So, to my friends who have served in classrooms, helped direct a choir, listened while a youngster has told a story, or have in any way just shown love to children, thank you. You have been a spiritual mother to my children and many others.

I believe this verse is for you as well.  (A particular shout-out to Quilly, Cousin Louise, and Dana).

Her children arise and call her blessed; 

   her husband also, and he praises her: 

²⁹ “Many women do noble things, 

   but you surpass them all.” 

³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; 

   but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 

³¹ Honor her for all that her hands have done, 

   and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Proverbs 31