Mother’s Day – a day set aside for our nation to remember our mothers. Although there are many who have not had the privilege of a close relationship with their mom, I am among the fortunate who have. My mom, Barbara and I are a lot alike. We plan, make lists, write stuff down, are good listeners, and are introverted. My mom has always had a heart for people – I can’t even begin to tell you of all the people who have come to her for her listening ear and compassionate spirit. She has prayed and ministered to so many over the years. Even today, she gets to minister to her patients as a social worker for Hospice. She is able to be that one person for some many who have no one. For that I am so proud of her. Mom is deeply spiritual. In fact it was my mom, who 30 years ago, led me to Jesus. We sat on the floor of our kitchen with the Illustrated Children’s Bible and she shared the story of God’s love and the heavenly city he was preparing for us. It was then, at 5 years old that I decided that I wanted Jesus to live in me, and it was my mother who prayed with me. And ever since then, I have watched her as she has demonstrated the love of Jesus to others – through her words of comfort and encouragement, and her actions of service. Whether it was serving as a teacher, washing dishes, running a crisis pregnancy hotline or being a church secretary, Mom was faithfully there. Her example of perseverance and love showed me that to her, this work was a spiritual act of worship. My mom does have a slight flair for the dramatic. The stories of her sound effects in the midst of crisis are hilarious, and we will never forget the day, in the midst of a busy morning, she used 409 Cleaning Spray in place of hairspray. There are many more things I could say about my mom and how much I love and appreciate her. But I love how it is put in the end of Proverbs 31 – “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all! Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise!” Happy Mother’s day to my mother, Barbara! Love you mom! (Hopefully I will not get in trouble over this photo. I have always really liked this photo of my mom.)