Mothers deserve special thanks

It’s been said that someone asked Winston Churchill to name the teacher who had the greatest influence upon his life. He simply answered, “My mother.”

Mothers see infinite possibilities in their children. Their children accomplish amazing feats because of mothers’ encouragement.

Mothers set the tone of the home by loving, protecting, defending and sacrificing. It is all in the name of love and that love defies understanding.

Mothers are the first teachers their children have. Godly mothers instill biblical principles into their children, shaping their destinies.

I heard a story of three young children who wanted to surprise their mother on Mother’s Day by cooking breakfast. They told her to stay in bed because they had a great surprise.

She heard all kinds of noises coming from the kitchen and was tempted to see what was happening. Yet she didn’t want to disappoint the children so she remained in bed.

Finally after a long time of waiting the children came to the bedroom and escorted her to the kitchen. It looked like a war zone. Pots, frying pan, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and all kinds of dishes were strewn about. The mother realized the children had given her the best gift of all … the gift of themselves and the expression of love. After they all enjoyed breakfast, the mother exclaimed, “That was the best Jell-O I ever had.”

Another story that touched my heart came out of Vietnam. A young pilot’s mission was to fly low over the enemy to bomb their supply line. The pilot flew so low he could see the Viet Cong’s uniforms and the enemy’s artillery. At that moment the pilot had a vision. He saw his godly mother and grandmother kneeling by their beds, praying for his safety. Their prayers were answered.

I wonder how many people owe their lives to mothers’ and grandmothers’ prayers.

Mother’s Day has been set aside to honor mothers everywhere. It is a special time to say, “Thank you Mom. I love you!”

King Lemuel shares his admiration for his mother in Proverbs 31:26-31.

“She speaks wise words and teaches others to be kind. She watches over family and never wastes her time. Her children speak well of her. Her husband also praises her saying, ‘There are many fine women, but you are better than all of them.’ Charm can fool you, and beauty can trick you, but a woman who respects the Lord should be praised. Give her the reward she has earned; she should be praised in public for what she has done.” (NCV)

Honor your mother on Mother’s Day and every day. A mother doesn’t ask for much. She loves you anyway and she always will.

Thank you mothers everywhere!