Honor your Mother

May 4, 2015 Monday Message:

“Jesus said to the disciple whom He loved, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from then on, this disciple took her into his home.” John 19:27 NLT

This coming Sunday is Mother’s Day. I believe that God sees Mothers as special people, and apparently Jesus feels that way too. From the cross, his concern wasn’t for himself, but rather for the provision and ongoing safety of his mother.

Last Sunday at church, a shall child approached an older woman, shouting, “Grandma!” She whispered to me, “We’re not really related. It’s just that everybody calls me ‘grandma.’” I think Jesus would have liked that. Some women are mothers to their children; and other women are mothers to us all. God is responsible for placing all these women in our midst.

Several years ago, I compiled a Mother’s Day prayer for use in a worship service. I think we’ll use it again this year. Feel free to use it yourself, or to share it. Let’s all honor the special women in our lives on this special day.

Mother’s Day Prayer:

Most Gracious Heavenly Father,

We thank You for all mothers, to whom You have entrusted the care of human life from its very beginning in the womb, those with selfless motherly-love for the children in their lives.

LORD, be with all women, including those who may have no children of their own, yet unselfishly care for the children of others. Father, may they know the joy of fulfilling this motherly calling of women, whether in teaching, nursing, religious life, or any other work or relationship that shines the light of Jesus into the world.

May all mothers teach faith to their children, growing daily in the knowledge of Jesus. Grant women the wisdom to share this knowledge faithfully with all who depend upon them.

And through the Holy Spirit, comfort those who sorrow for children who have died; comfort parents whose children who are ill; comfort those with children estranged from their families, children who are in trouble or danger of any kind. Help grieving parents rely on Your tender mercy, LORD, and the knowledge that You love ALL your children.

And God, fill our women with your inspiration, strength, and heavenly blessing. May they receive Your Grace abundantly in this life, and share eternity in Your presence in the life to come.

We pray to You in the name of Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord and Risen Savior. AMEN.”

Norton Lawellin

Let’s worship together! Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. every Sunday in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week, May 10, we’ll first honor the special women in our lives, and then open up Acts 20. See you at church!