The Gift of a Mother’s Love

Happy Mother’s Day — from the Irish Sea!

Today Carl and I are sailing between Ireland and the United Kingdom, and by the time you read this, we’ll be in Liverpool — home of The Beatles.

Can you imagine the pride of those Liverpool mothers hearing their boys on the radio for the first time?” John, Paul, George, and Ringo — don’t forget your jackets!”

As I gaze across these deep blue waters, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for my grandmother, my mother, my children, Ryan and Staci, and the grandchildren and bonus family (Carl’s crew) God has so generously given me.

Earlier on this trip, we stood in line for a bus tour in Stornoway, Scotland. That’s when we noticed a tender scene. A devoted son was gently pushing his mother in a wheelchair. He told us, with a smile, “I take my mother on a cruise every year.”

My heart melted.

I thought of my own children, who wrapped me in love after my first husband went to heaven. They checked on me, included me, and reminded me that I was never alone.

“Their children arise and call them blessed.” (Proverbs 31:28) And that is so true — coming from my children!

Motherhood is more than biology. It is love in work clothes. It is prayer at midnight, hugs in hard times, casseroles, pep talks, and the ability to find things no one else can locate.

And if you’ve never had children, but you nurture, encourage, and love others, you carry a mother’s heart.

As Jesus hung on the cross, He entrusted His mother to John’s care (John 19:26–27). Even in His suffering, He honored His mama.

Today, call your mother. Hug your grandmother. Encourage a widow. Love someone who needs a little mothering.

A mother’s love is one of God’s sweetest gifts.

And every expression of that love points us to the everlasting arms of our Heavenly Father.

To my mother and grandmother in heaven, and all you dear, loving, encouraging friends and loved ones — happy, happy Mother’s Day!
I love you ALL so, so much! Thank you for loving me!