Ephesians 6:2-3  “Honor (esteem and value as precious) your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— ³ “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

I was thinking of the great value of mothers – and in that moment of sincere appreciation, with sort of a sigh I said, “Where would we be without our mothers?”  Then in that warm, fuzzy moment, my grasp of the obvious kicked in and reality struck.  Duh! – We wouldn’t be here!!

There are all kinds of mothers: birth mothers, step-mothers, adoptive mothers, mothers in the faith.  Did you realize that a woman could be a mother without having children of her own?  I think of the women who have been like mothers to Donna and me through the years.  They encouraged us and loved us and treated us like their own.

If you find yourself today as one of those who has no physical children, think of those whom you’ve been able to bless or those you love as though they were your own.  Donna and I have joked about the “adopted” children we have.  We’re like a 2^nd set of parents – except when it comes to college or wedding bills!

As we each honor our mother today, also think of those other women who have blessed us as though we were family to them as well. If there are women who come to mind, communicate your gratitude to them for the special role they have played in your life.

One of the most special memories that I have relates to Fabi who is married to our son John.  When she first came from Brazil for a 6 month visit, Donna was part of a liturgical dance team here at church.  When Donna worships through dance she absolutely radiates joy and love for Jesus.

Fabi later described what a blessing it was for her to watch Donna dance at church.  You see Donna bears a striking resemblance to Fabi’s mother who was killed in an accident years earlier – just hours after becoming a Christian.  Fabi had never seen her mother worship the Lord and seeing Donna dance, was like watching her mom worship the Lord.

Let us always honor all the special women that the Lord has given us and particularly remember them today.  Happy Mother’s Day!