My son, listen to your father’s instruction, and don’t forsake your mother’s teaching: for they will be a garland to grace your head, and chains around your neck.
–Proverbs 1:8-9
When I was considering a college education, a Christian sister talked to me. “You should not give up God’s calling because of lack of money.”
“I don’t have money to go to school,” I said.
She said, “I will be responsible for the funds for your entering college.”
And she was! For two years, she contacted a group of supporters for me and I solely focused on my studies. Thus, I entered college with the highest admission test score and received a full scholarship.
I am ever grateful for her mother-like care: making warm gloves for me, writing many encouraging letters while I was in military service, even administering spiritual reproof to guide me on the right path. She said countless prayers and sacrificed her comfort for me.
A few months ago, my younger brother in South Korea emailed me two pictures of her. When I looked at her face, all her acts of kindness flashed in my mind like a film. Heartfelt appreciation crashed over me like a big wave.
She helped me to start the necessary education to fulfill God’s mission. I put her name in the appreciation page of my Ph.D. dissertation because without her care I could not have come so far.
Today, if possible, tell your mother, or someone who has mothered you, how much you appreciate her.
Prayer
Dear Lord, Help me to honor my mother. Thank You for spiritual mothers and mentors. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
How can I best describe my appreciation to my mother, or to someone who has mothered me?