Mother's Day

First Family,
The 5th commandment is to “Honor your Father and Mother, that you may live a long time in the land the Lord your God is giving to you.” -Exodus 20:12

This is a unique commandment in several ways. For one this is the only commandment with a promise. It is to your benefit to fulfill this commandment as it comes with a guaranteed promise from God. What also makes this commandment unique is that it takes on a different meaning depending on the stage of our relationship with our mothers. For example, when we are young, to honor our mother generally means to obey and listen. However, as you both age honoring them often means the preservation of dignity and respect.

We would all always do well to follow the example of Jesus as He honored His mother all the days of His life. Despite having a lot to accomplish during His three years of ministry before His death, Jesus showed respect and care toward His mother. He welcomed Her involvement in His life, ensured her needs were met, and provided for her in old age.

In my opinion, one of the most touching scenes in the life of Jesus is the moment of the cross and His love for His mother. His mother Mary showed great courage by following Jesus up the hill called Golgotha on that day. As Jesus struggled to catch His breath, He called out to John to care for His mother after His death.

“Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.” – John 19:25-27

Jesus deeply cherished His mother and valued her active participation in His ministry, even until the very end. While Jesus would rise again, He was also aware that He would soon ascend and leave behind His mom in need of care. Even here Jesus thought of His mother.

Honoring our mother is a command that we never outgrow, and it is a command that doesn’t end when we leave home for college or go our separate ways after marriage. How can you obey this command from the Lord to honor your mother?

Servant for His Glory,
Pastor Robert