So much has been said about mothers---and rightfully so. Abraham Lincoln, raised by both his biological mother and a step-mother, refused to distinguish between either, instead referencing to both as his "angel" mother:
"I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life."
Princess Diana insisted that, "A mother's arms are more comforting than anyone else's," and, likely, we are inclined to agree with her. Almost certainly, we each have our own stories and precious moments regarding our own mothers. She was, after all, the first voice that we identified in utero, and likely the first eyes that met ours at birth.
The Bible, too, has much to say about mothers. God's very Word describes motherhood as a gift producing His blessings, and repeatedly conveys the importance of honoring the mother who gave you life (Proverbs 31:28). Eve, whose very name in Hebrew means "Life," is in a way mirrored by every subsequent mother in history who harbors within her own body the promise of continued life. Indeed, each mother is a testament of God's goodness and faithful mercies. Tangible realities always convey an underlying and coinciding spiritual truth---this was the importance of Old Testament symbols as shadows of things to come. Physical life, beginning in the womb, also, is a director to the real existence of spiritual life available in Christ (John 14:6).
By the spiritual guidance of mothers like Lois and Eunice, young Timothy was endowed a "sincere faith."
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well (2 Timothy 1:5).”
Samuel, renowned priest of Israel, was graced a "little robe" of priestly aspirations by a faithful mother who wept for his existence:
“And his mother used to make for him a little robe and take it to him each year when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice (1 Samuel 2:19).”
Motherhood, therefore, is a dual vessel of promise and foretaste of eternal life for Christian believers. In an age where the maternal vocation goes largely unrecognized even in the church, it is vital that Christians re-assume a biblical perspective---and no better time to reassert such appreciation this rapidly approaching Mother's Day (May 14).
For the reasons listed above and more, mum definitely deserves a restful, relaxing holiday. However, as mothers are so notoriously selfless and sacrificing, yours may be the type to leave you clueless as to what to get on her special day. We at the Gospel Herald have some elegant (but reasonably priced) suggestions:
1. Your mother can enjoy the biting wit of Lady Dowager Grantham all over again in this beautiful DVD set containing all six seasons: Downton Abbey, the complete collection:
2. Mum can follow the life of a very youthful Queen Victoria in this new PBS/ Masterpiece collaboration---from her first acts as reigning monarch, to attempted assassination, romantic mishaps, and a finale of her child's first birth.
3. Tea has been relished for centuries for its soothing powers and delicious taste. Republic of Tea showcases a lovely "Thanks Mom" duo including two flavors sure to be enjoyed: "Thanks, You're a Peach" and "Mom You're the Berry Best."
4. Aromatherapy is all the rage right now, and for very good reasons. With science to back them up, essential oils are recognized for their ability to calm, clean, and even clear focus. This Young Living Starter Kit, featuring eleven revitalizing oils and a rainstone diffuser for about a third of the retail price.
