Is your mother living? If so, I pray you are celebrating her in some way this Sunday. I am blessed to have my mother very much alive and part of my life. She isn’t just my mother, but she is one of my best friends. I’m not sure exactly when she made the transition from just being my mom to being my friend also. If I had to guess I would say it was sooner than late. Even in my teenage years I saw my mother as my friend. She would come crash on my bed at night and we would talk about anything and everything. She has always been for me, no matter what I was trying to accomplish. She pushes me past my excuses into my reality, even if it hurts a little. She is an amazing woman and I am blessed.
In the book of Ruth we never meet Ruth’s mother, but we are allowed to peer into the relationship between Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Obviously, they had an amazing relationship because when all of the men of the family died Ruth had the chance to leave Naomi and wouldn’t hear of it [Ruth 1:16]. She loved Naomi and wouldn’t even consider leaving her.
Due to our culture, many of us do not live close to our mothers. There may be states or even an ocean separating us. Fortunately, with phones, email, and Skype, you can stay connected. However, sometimes you simply need someone you can reach out and touch. Our culture didn’t take God by surprise. He knew about the internet long before scientist did and He knew how transient our lives would be and he made provision. In Titus 2 the women of the church are called to pour into those who are younger than them, teaching them and encouraging them in life and marriage. When your mother’s aren’t close by to fill that need in your life, the women of the church are there to step in and help. All of us have someone older in our lives [even if it is someone spiritually older] who can pour into us, but we must realize there will always be someone we are to pour into also. What we learn and gain isn’t for us. It is to be passed on.
Today, I want to thank the many women who have poured richly into my life, both when my mother was close by and when we’ve been states apart. You all have influenced the woman I am today and I will be forever thankful to the Lord for bringing you into my life. Happy Mother’s Day!
I’d love to hear about your mothers and other amazing women in your life who have influenced you. Use the comments section to pay tribute to them today.
[The picture is my sweet Mama at Christmas time. Love you, Mom!]