Mom, We Applaud You

At the age of 49, I completely understand that it's not easy being a parent.  My mother had a little more difficult time of it than most.  She had to raise me, which was no easy task.  There were times she had to simply sit back and pray that I would get through it alive and without any permanent damage.  I know God heard those prayers.  At the time I really didn't understand how much praying she was doing, but as a parent, I understand now that she was praying hard.  In fact, she still is. 

Mom is an avid reader of God's Word.  I admire her dedication to the reading and study of the Bible.  At times she has taught children in Sunday School or in after-school programs at her church.  She has discipled many children who have decided to become followers of Jesus Christ.  She has ministered to many of her friends who have experienced a loss in their life.  Most exciting to see is the peace and joy that she has in just having a relationship with the Lord.  She absolutely enjoys being saved. 

Mom, entered a new stage in her life about 22 years ago.  She became a grandmother for the first time.  Turns out she's good at that too.  She has five grandchildren and loves them all dearly.  Although distance makes it difficult to be with the grandkids all of the time, Mom (Memaw) makes sure that these grandkids know they are loved and that she is praying for them.  She is one of their greatest cheerleaders; something she was also good at back in high school.

I love my mother and I thank God that she is one of my best friends.  The greatest lessons she has ever taught me have been by her example.  She taught me to always trust that God will provide and no matter what, we can depend on Him.  One of my mother's very favorite verses is "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."  Prov. 3:5-6  She quoted it often and as I grew up God sank the truth of those verses very deep into my heart. 

Mom, thank you that you pointed my heart to Jesus.  Thank you that you prayed for me and that you still do.  Thank you for praying for my children.  Thank you for being a Godly example to me and Valerie and our children.  Thank you for being an encourager to all of us.  We love you and we thank God for you.  Mom, we applaud you!  Happy Mother's Day!