By Kris Ovenshine
One hundred and twenty-two million calls are made each year to wish Mom a “Happy Mother’s Day.” One hundred and forty-one cards are sent with the same sentiment.
Thinking of revering Mom goes back to childhood. Making a special card or gift for her, or picking out one at the store was an annual ritual.
But this day means more. Quoting Billy Graham, “Only God Himself fully appreciates the influence of a Christian mother in the molding of character in her children.” Millions of Americans will honor their mothers on Mother’s Day May 12.
My memories of this special day take me back to sitting in church with my Mom, Vivian, and hearing the hymn “Faith of Our Mothers.” She wore the purple orchid corsage I gave her. Her joy was her family together at church.
She exuded peace and calm in church but also in the way she lived her life.
The Bible was her roadmap; she didn’t quote verses or talk about it. She lived it day by day. (1 John 3 :18)
As a single Mom, she wore many hats besides mother. She was a pharmacist (breadwinner), homemaker, mentor, friend to many. She was a lifelong best friend to me.
Her well of faith ran deep. So I believed in Jesus as a small child; she pointed me to Christ.
Even though her faith was strong, it didn’t mean that she didn’t make mistakes. She was the first one to say later in life, she was a sinner saved by grace like everyone else.
My mother passed away in summer of 2015. Her journey included blindness and ALS her last few years.
Even in her lowest times, she prayed for and thought of others. She listened to the Bible on tape. Her trust in her Savior was evident to all who knew her. And what a strong witness it was to me that she didn’t crumble or doubt God.
As hard as it was to say goodbye to her, I knew it was “see you later.”
She trusted Jesus for her salvation as a young child. She counted on the saving work He provided at the cross-not anything she did. That is why she will spend eternity in heaven. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Her qualities — quiet strength, resolve in adversity and wisdom – are her legacy. When I became a mom, her example guided me and it continues to influence my daughter, who recently became a mom. I have found that being a “Grammie” has given me my smile back. Psalm 145:3 says, “One generation shall commend your works to another and declare your might acts
So, I will remember Mom this Mother’s Day with a smile instead of a tear, knowing that we will be reunited one day.
Two things I encourage others to do: Call your Mother and tell her you love her. Even better, go to church with her. 🙂
