What If Mother Doesn’t Deserve a Day?

Psalm 27:10

“Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”

I am one of the lucky ones. I have a wonderful mother. My childhood is rich with great memories. I was loved and blessed. Thank you Lord. Thank you Mom!

Now suppose this were not true. I can imagine that I would be negative about Mother’s Day. Perhaps I have no right to offer an opinion (given my rosy situation) but this bible text invites a different response. There is still something to celebrate for those who face Mother's Day with pain.

Consider a few true and false statements.

True. A mother’s nurture is very important and formative. The research affirms the value of cuddles, closeness and maternal love. From the first hours of life these actions imprint upon a child. Mothers have an enormous influence for good or ill upon their infants.

False. If you didn’t get that nurture you’re ruined. Not so! And that is the point of Ps. 27:10. Where parents fail, God does not. He receives the child (or adult) who is abandoned – emotionally, spiritually, literally and figuratively. God can be your mother as well as your father. God can heal and restore.

True. Mothers are uniquely wired to love their children. Yes. Again, the research supports this and the bible teaches it (Isa 49:15). There is a deep abiding bond. And this is what Mother's Day rightly celebrates.

False. It always works out well. No, some mothers have deep mental, emotional or physical dysfunctions that inhibit this bonding-love. A childhood pregnancy, an emotional breakdown, an untimely death, a cult allegiance, substance abuse, and countless unspoken evils can sever the bond, crush hope and unwind innocence. Some people’s childhood is a nightmare.

True. The sacrifice of a good mother deserves praise.

False. Every mother deserves praise.

True. Every mother deserves love.

False. All mothers are easy to love.

Motherhood on earth is not perfect. Some mothers are unwell. Some kid's are wounded. God sees. For those who seek him, God attends, heals, forgives, nurtures and receives the forsaken. God is mother to those who need a mother.

Most mothers however are in pretty good shape. Most kids are OK. And Sunday is a day to celebrate that fact. So here are my brainstormed lists of Mother's Day possibilities.  

List A: If your mother is/was wonderful:

• Celebrate her! Wear a flower.
• Tell her story to someone who will listen. 
• Profile her picture on Facebook for the day!
• Write her a note or card and send it if she is still alive.
• Go to church and thank God for her.
• Remind your siblings and cousins that 8 May is the day!
• Remember her advice and don’t forsake it (Prov. 1:18).
• Breakfast in bed? A present? A few kind words.
• Honour her. (Exodus 20:12)

List B: If your mother is/was NOT wonderful at all:

• Claim the absolute privilege of Ps 27:10.
• Forgive. Let go. Counselling?
• Don’t rain on other peoples’ Mother’s Day.

The above reads well if you substitute “father”. It is pretty much the same deal for both parents. No matter what, the Lord will receive you!

Questions

• What and how will you celebrate this Mother's Day?
• Is there something you need to forgive this Mother's Day?
• Is there someone who needs your support this Mother's Day

Just for Fun:
Enjoy Anita Renfroe singing her tribute to motherhood:

Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYukEAmoMCQ