Lord,

As I look ahead to Mother’s Day, I thank you for creating motherhood. Through a mom’s heart you reveal your love for your children who believe.

A mom’s love is patient when little ones are fussy and refuse to sleep.

A mom’s love is kind in the face of tantrums, backtalk, and foolish choices.

A mom’s love does not envy, but celebrates the blessings and opportunities her kids enjoy.

A mom’s love does not boast. She knows her strength and wisdom are found in You alone. Her heart holds empathy for the struggles every mother will face.

A mom’s love is not proud. She gives You all the praise for the success her kids achieve.

A mom does not dishonor others. She earns her kids’ confidence as they trust her to build them up and speak of them with respect wherever she goes.

A mom is not self-seeking. She puts aside selfishness to care for her loved ones. She imitates Jesus, who “did not come to be served, but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

A mom is not easily angered by her kids’ childish behavior. She holds compassion for their immaturity and shows self-control when they resist her authority.

A mom keeps no record of wrongs. She extends the gift of second (and third, and 399th) chances. She looks forward to the person her child is becoming instead of labeling them for the failures of the past.

A mom’s love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. She trains her kids to know right from wrong, encouraging them to walk in Your ways.

A mom’s love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Her love never fails. Moms never give up on their kids. They trust You to work in their hearts and bring the change that’s needed. They believe in their children when everyone else turns away. They work and strive to give their kids whatever they need to overcome. They pray all the time, and then pray some more. A mom hangs tough in her child’s corner no matter what. Her love never ends. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Thank you for the gift of moms who love in your name–who show what your beautiful love, compassion, and grace look like every day.

Amen.