Honouring Mothers and Embracing God's Love on Mothering Sunday

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Rev. Dr. Dean Courtier
dean.courtier@estuaryelim.co.uk

Honouring Mothers and Embracing God's Love on Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday is a special day to celebrate and honour the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers and mother figures in our lives. It is a time of reflection, appreciation, and gratitude, not just for our biological mothers but also for those who have nurtured and guided us in the faith. As we mark this occasion, let us turn to the Word of God and be reminded of His heart for mothers and the role of love in our lives.

Proverbs 31:26-27 (NLT): "When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness."

This verse beautifully captures the wisdom, kindness, and diligence of a godly mother. The Bible is filled with examples of faithful and courageous mothers who trusted God and influenced the generations that followed them. Consider Jochebed, the mother of Moses, who trusted God's protection over her son (Exodus 2:1-10). Think of Hannah, who prayed earnestly for a child and dedicated Samuel to the Lord's service (1 Samuel 1:26-28). And of course, Mary, the mother of Jesus, who humbly accepted God's will and witnessed the fulfilment of His plan of salvation (Luke 1:38).

These women remind us that motherhood is more than a biological connection; it is a calling of love, faith, and selflessness. Many in our churches and communities embody this role - spiritual mothers, mentors, and encouragers who reflect God's nurturing heart. Mothering Sunday is an opportunity to appreciate them and to be thankful for the way God places people in our lives to guide and strengthen us.

Yet, for some, Mothering Sunday can be a difficult day - those who have lost mothers, those who long to be mothers, and those who have painful experiences tied to family relationships. God sees each heart, and His love reaches beyond our circumstances. Isaiah 66:13 says, "I will comfort you there in Jerusalem as a mother comforts her child." God's love is nurturing, compassionate, and unfailing. No one is forgotten in His presence.

As we celebrate, let us express gratitude to the mothers and mother figures in our lives. Let us also reflect on how we can extend God's love to those who need encouragement, support, and kindness. May we be a church family that uplifts and nurtures, just as Christ calls us to love one another.

Happy Mothering Sunday! May God's love fill your hearts and homes.