Mothering & the Grace of God
Sermon Review
Mother's Day 14 May 2000
Reading - Prov.31:30

Have you ever wondered when and why Mother's Day came into being?

Anna M. Jarvis first suggested the national observance of an annual day honouring all mothers because she had loved her own mother so dearly. On May 10, 1908, at a memorial service for her mother, Miss Jarvis gave a carnation (her mother's favourite flower) to all who attended. The day and this gesture gained popularity, so much so that in 1914 by an act of Congress, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.

Mother's Day is Special

Why is it so special? Without Mothers none of us would be here; many would like to honour our their own mothers; mother's have a very profound impact on our lives.

What have been some of the joys that you have experienced as a mother? Eg. First steps, first tooth, first word, the unexpected obedience, the unsought show of love and appreciation, the mature joys of first job, first employment, first date, marriage, first grandchildren?

There are many joys, but it is truthfully a very demanding role. It is easy to understand the problem of the mother who went to a counsellor to find answers for fatigue, depression, irritability etc. The Counsellor said, "now let me see if I have it right. You give 50% of your time to your husband, 50% of your time to your work, and 50% of your time to your children? Mmmm. I think that I am beginning to understand your problem!"

Mothering Requires God's Grace

The gospel promises that a person who places their faith in Christ for salvation and forgiveness will receive the Holy Spirit (Eph.1:13-14.) The qualities of the Holy Spirit are paramount for the task of mothering (Gal.5:22) ie. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.. The reason is that so often mothers are asked the humanly impossible eg. Give love when you feel like snapping; making your money stretch unreasonably; called to reason with resistance and stubbornness; deal with the fights and frights in family living etc. God is the best help that a mother can find, as a mother who loves God is the best asset their children can have.

Prov. 31:30 says, "charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who reveres the Lord will be praised." Mothers need to be reminded that God is accessible at all times and able to help in times of need (Ps.46:1; Heb.4:14-16). Don't ask the question, "is God accessible?". Rather, ask yourself , "how can I access God?". Remember, Paul tells us that 'in him we live and move and have our being' (Acts.17:28). Mothers, be reminded and affirmed, God is there and only too willing to help you! He can identify with all of your needs. This is important, as for many, Mothering and Mother's Day is a sad and difficult day.

For some, motherhood is an accident, and not always a welcome one. For some, biological motherhood isn't possible; for some this day is a reminder of miscarriages, abortions, still born, premature death, wasting sicknesses, forced separation from children, rejection or indifferent attitudes from their children, physical or verbal abuse, guilt, shame, lost opportunity and regret etc.

Because of this mothers need to be reminded that God is not only accessible, but wishing to relieve some of the pain and heartache that has accrued over your time of mothering, or even wanting to be a mother. Jesus said, "Come to me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest". (Matt.11:28).

Conclusion:

Mother's Day should be celebrated for at least the following reasons:

Mothers, take time to spend some time alone with God today and find the solace that can renew you.

Blessings

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