Happy Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a day everyone reading this certainly can appreciate. After all, none of us would be here today without our mothers. While I will never know (Or pretend to for that matter) what it is like to be a mom, I am profoundly thankful to have such a wonderful mom of my own and a wife that is an outstanding mother to our two boys.

According to Lifeway Research the highest attended Sundays are Easter, Christmas, and Mother’s Day. I think this is a testament to the profound impact that mothers have on their families. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that I would not be where I am today without the prayers, love, and guidance of my own mom. I am so thankful that my sons receive this same Godly example from my wife.

Scripture gives us many examples of these Godly mothers. First and foremost, there is Mary the mother of Christ. As incredible as her story is, there are two verses that have always stood out to me when considering a mother’s love. The first is Luke 1:38, which states “I am the Lord’s servant, Mary answered, May your word to me be fulfilled. (NIV)” This verse is Mary’s response to the angel’s declaration that she will give birth to Jesus. I can’t begin to fathom the awe of speaking directly to one of God’s angels, much less what this young girl must have felt when hearing the news that God had chosen her to give birth to, and raise his son. I’m sure there was fear, but her response was not fearful, it was faithful. The second verse comes from Luke 2:19, “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. (NIV)” This verse comes after Mary has given birth to Jesus, and the shepherds have come to see him after their own divine appointment in the fields. I’d read this verse every Christmas for my entire life, but it wasn’t until I saw my wife hold each of our boys for the first time that it really stuck. Apart from the love of Christ, there is no other love like a mother and her child.

The list of mothers in scripture goes on. Sarah, the wife of Abraham battles her own doubt and by remaining faithful to God gives birth to Isaac even in old age. Later on, Rebekah pleads with God on behalf of her twins Jacob, and Esau. Hannah prays fervently for a child, ultimately giving birth to Samuel the prophet who will one day anoint King David. Mary’s own cousin Elizabeth faithfully gave birth to John the Baptist who would one day prepare the way for Christ’s ministry on earth. Jochebed, the mother of Moses, was willing to take on incredible risk and danger to keep him safe, and give him a chance at life. Scripture continually gives us examples of the impact a mother’s faith, love, and devotion can have on her children. I don’t think this is an accident. I think throughout His holy word, God is demonstrating to us the gifts that mothers are.

I work with teenage boys a lot, and it is certainly their tendency to often be “too cool” for mom. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times. You’re never too cool for mom. The same woman waiting for you outside the gate after a game is the one who tucked you in, cared for you when you were sick, put bandaids on the boo-boos, and prays for you every single time you walk out of the house. So, here is my challenge for you. If you are fortunate enough to still have your mother on earth this Mother’s Day remember you’re never too cool for mom! Pick up the phone, make the drive, do whatever it takes to let her know you love and appreciate her on this special day. I love you Momma, and I love you Page! Thank you both so much for all you have done, and continue to do!

God Bless,

Phil Johnson

Founder J23 Ministries