Humbled by Mother’s Day
Most women in church have a secret loathing for Proverbs 31. It describes the ideal wife and mother in ways that seem exhausting and overly demanding. Perhaps we should see the chapter for what it is—a description of ideal characteristics and rewards for noble women. The prototype wife/mother is a good household manager, a hard worker, a charitable person, and one who fears God. Is this not Mother’s Day Hallmark, told in wisdom literature? Do we not declare our mothers to be smart and diligent? Do we not say that they are generous and faithful? King Solomon says such women are trusted and cared for. He declares that their husbands gain good reputations because of them. Finally, the whole family praises her successful efforts.
So, why the trepidation when we ministers declare our message will be from this particular chapter? We do not always manage well, we sometimes do not give our best efforts, there are times when we choose selfishness over charity, and, quite frankly, we sometimes set God to the side. In other words, we fail.
Lists of ideals always leave us feeling less than ideal. If only our humility would drive us to rely on God’s help. The Apostle Paul tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is love. Love fuels all ideals, and it can be found in God. In the Footprints in the Sand poem, a traveler finishes life’s journey, looks back, and realizes that God had walked with him—most of the time. There are a few crucial episodes where only one set of prints appear. The traveler asks God why. The Lord responds that He had to carry him during the most difficult moments.
Today is Mother’s Day, but many moms feel inadequate. In a month it will be us dads who feel unworthy of accolades. Turn to God, for His strength is sufficient.