Mother’s Day

Today is Mothers Day and I want to tell the world how grateful I am for my mom. (I told the Lord so first thing this morning).

I know I was the one that made it necessary to cut her long, beautiful hair. As a baby I had a way of clutching and pulling so she eventually cut it shorter so I didn’t cause so many problems.

I know I’ve made her nervous more than a few times. One day she answered a knock at the door and found a stranger there, me at his side. “Is this your boy?” he asked. When Mom confirmed that I was indeed hers he handed me over to her. “He was riding his trike to town,” he said. He doubted I had Mom’s permission so brought me and my tricycle home. Mom thanked him and brought me inside. I do believe there repercussions for that little stunt. There were plenty of times her eyes widened, “you what?!”

I know I’ve made her happy. Lots of laughter, boyhood antics, friends who get the giggles at the worst possible time. Expressions of kindness and more good-brother thinking as I grew out of childhood selfishness.

I know I’ve made her shake her head in disbelief; a fall and fat lip the night before being a ring-bearer at some friends’ wedding. Burns and blisters on all five fingers from spilling homemade toffee at the neighbor’s across the street – and he wasn’t supposed to have company, his parents were both working. The Saturday morning car-bicycle collision I didn’t bother to mention until the driver of the car knocked on our door and asked if I was OK.

I know I’ve made her cry with inconsiderate childhood stubbornness, poor choices, disappointments, hopefully not too many – but I have.

I know I’ve made her proud. My appreciation for producing good music. Effective ministry. A loving family of my own. Writing things that touch people’s hearts. Excellence. Stepping up to the task when Dad took sick and passed away less than a month later. I will never forget the moment she looked me in the eye and asked if I would lead his memorial service. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but Mom’s belief in my ability to come through, her asking me to take the reins is perhaps my highest honor in life thus far.

I know I bring her a smile today, though we’re several states apart. Good news from the North, a family that loves and is serving God, walking in truth.

I’m sure she had no idea, the day this snap-shot was taken, of all that life would bring her way as a mom. But she’s been up for it.

Trusting in God and drawing on His strength one day at a time, she’s done well – is doing well.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I hope today -and every day- brings you a gentle smile. God has been good to you.

And He’s been good to me – through you.

Much Love,