This Sunday is Mother’s Day. But depending on when you are reading this, it may already be too late. Nothing brings out my non-traditional side quite like these “Hallmark Holidays”. I confess that I always wrestle with what to do as a pastor on days like these.
I believe that motherhood is an amazing and glorious calling. I mean, let’s face it, we all have one and without one we wouldn’t be. So it just makes sense that we pick up the phone and give a call, or do whatever seems right to honor our mothers on this day. And I am honestly grateful for a day set aside to honor our mothers.
But where I find myself getting hung up is how much I am supposed to honor YOUR mother. I am glad she was whatever she is for you. I am hopeful she was there for you and that you have a great relationship with her. I hope that you honor her regardless of how she may have let you down and proven to be less than perfect. But I have noticed a trend in which this day has morphed (particularly for churches) in which it is the churches responsibility to honor mothers. I imagine that it might be more valuable coming from you.
My mother passed away shortly before my wedding in the summer of 1995. It was a bitter and tough road and it has left me with some scars that I carry. But my lack of sentimentalism over this day is only partly due the way it reminds me I have no mother to call.
The other half is due to the reality that honoring our parents is a command from The Lord. It is great that we have a day set aside, but I would recommend that you take advantage of having a mother to call regularly while she is still here with you. Those of you who have already lost your mother know exactly what I mean.
Honoring motherhood in general in the church by preaching a special message just for mom’s is not my M.O. But encouraging all the church to walk in godliness which includes honoring our own mothers, is a message from scripture that ought to be before us every day of the year.
Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!
