Giving Flowers

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”- Proverbs 31:28

Who are you giving flowers to this Mother’s Day? I am not talking about roses, daisies, carnations, or lilies. This modern term “giving flowers” means paying a compliment and showing respect for what someone accomplished. And there may be no better picture of loving care and consistency like a MOM. Isaiah 66:13 uses the example of what mothers naturally do to what God always does, “As a mother comforts her child, so will comfort you.”

Not everyone grew up in a healthy home or great relationship with their mom, but hopefully we all could point to someone who was instrumental and impactful in our lives. Listen to what Paul says to a young man and son in the faith in 2 Timothy 1:5, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” Talk about a life forever changed by the influential investment of godly women! In fact, as we think about the amazing qualities of our Wonder Woman, we come to see the beautiful picture of a loving, giving God who is always with us. The formation of our lives and the building of our faith has a lot to do with the people who loved us, prayed for us, shared wisdom, provided support, and gave encouragement. They stepped in when others didn’t, they showed up when we needed them most, and they showered us with a love that was super healing and still working in us today! Their gift is 1 Thessalonians 5:11 being lived out, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Giving gifts (flowers, candy, jewelry, money) and going to a brunch this Sunday is nice, but there is so much more we can do to honor those who gave their all. This Mother’s Day, let’s take time to honor, celebrate, and say a big “THANK YOU” to the women who sacrificed so much, modeled God’s heart, provided for and nurtured us! Philippians 1:3 says, “I thank my God every time I remember you.”

Here are my Mother’s Day cards and flowers…

Thank You, Aunt Kerry for taking care of me when I was a child!

Thank You, Sherry Rostek for speaking wisdom and showing care when I was a young believer!

Thank You, Sharon Thomas for opening your home and making me a family member for 5 ½ years!

Thank You, Joanie Zwerling, for being the love of my life, the mother of our children, and a model of love, care, and faithfulness!