While reading a la-la book (that means there isn’t much depth, the storyline just flits along), the mother in the story was quite outspoken and at times estranged from her two daughters.  They tolerated their mom.

That scenario does not describe my mother at all.  I miss her so very much. Due to life’s circumstances, mine and hers, she lived with me, during my adult life, for her last 17 years. What a joy! What a gift! I was so blessed to share close time with her. She passed away at 86. She had a plethora of medical issues and more pills than a pharmacy, but never complained. Her trials were never an imposition for me or my husband.

Definitely lots of “mother” stories are recounted in the Bible, from Sarah becoming a “late in life mother,” and Rebekah having twin boys, Esau and Jacob, Elizabeth, John’s mother and Mary the mother of Jesus, and others. I, too, am a mother and ponder often the Biblical mother stories. We learn their years of motherhood were not all sunshine and roses. They experienced trials and turmoil too. They also shared their wisdom and faith. The key piece of connectivity was their faith in God. He loves us unconditionally and His Word provides wisdom and strength for our parenting role (this applies to fathers too).

I hold fast to the commandment that requires me to HONOR my mother and father.  Do you wonder if you parented well, or if you are doing your best at being a grandparent? Perhaps, you are a step-parent. Perhaps you are an aunt or friend assisting in a parental role. The Bible has HELP.  Proverbs, Deuteronomy, Ephesians, the Gospels and others.  His wisdom, guidance, love, it is all there. My mother read and applied those lessons to her own life and taught us those same lessons. I miss her.

Jill