Mother’s Day is quickly approaching and many people are trying to figure out the perfect gift. The funny thing is that most moms don’t need anything or desire all the fuss. Most moms really only want to feel valued and honored. They do not want to share a to-do list or create a plan for the day. Most moms just want to know that you know them well enough to think something out.
I looked up the meaning of honor, it says to treat someone with admiration and respect. Admiration means being regarded as impressive. Respect means admire deeply. So honoring your mom would look like you regard her as impressive and admire her deeply. The Greek word for honor means “to revere, prize and value”. So how can you respect, admire, and show your Mom honor this Mother’s day?
Following in their footsteps
In reality, moms feel honored when you show qualities you have learned from them in your life. When you hold high and true family values it makes moms super proud. Being a respectful human being – one who honors their word is what your Mom wants. Following in the steps they have taught you, shows your mom great respect.
I think of my own mom, she worked full-time but never missed our activities. She was at all concerts, football games, quiz meets, and anything else we signed up for. Always made sure we were in Church on Sundays and Wednesdays. She showed us how to love on others by watching other people’s children on the weekend- to give them a break. My mom signed up to come on youth trips as the chaperone and would cook the food or organize the youth. She showed us how to serve others at church by helping in anyway needed.
When I became a Mom, I wanted to make sure my kids felt as loved and appreciated as I did. I have tried to instill values in them that are important. I have taught them the importance of being involved in Church. How to serve others has been a top priority in our lives. I have volunteered for many trips with my kids and so on.
Speaking highly of her
Being a Mom is a tough job. It is easy to take those closest to us for granted. Our home is where we let our guard down and allow ourselves to relax a little. Unfortunately our home is also where our stresses get dumped. If it has been a rough day at work, it is easy to bring that home. At the end of the day, that is not what most Moms want, it is just reality. Every mom knows she has flaws, she would be the first to admit them. She needs reassurance that you see the good things in her.
Stay-at-home moms do not have someone telling them when a good job is done. The oven doesn’t show appreciation for being cleaned. The laundry is not grateful when it is perfectly folded and smells good. Often those blessings 2 feet and under are sharing in the stress load and not very affirming either. Everyone likes to be appreciated and that includes moms. Don’t take all those lunches, car rides and school clothes for granted. Thank your mom. When she does something special let her know how much it meant. Tell others about how awesome she is.
Involve her in your life
Often times we are quick to grow up, get out of the house, and find adult friends. Do not forget about your mom. She wants to still watch movies with you, play games with you, and enjoy dinner together. She loves to hear how your day went. Your mom wants to know when you had a good day. She loves to hear how you made someone smile. Even though you are older she still hopes to create new memories with you. She is your mom, through and through and loves you in a way no one else will.
What are some easy ways that have a large impact you can do to honor your mom?
Take a photo with her.
Share a story of something she taught you.
Remind her of a memorable moment.
Share a funny memory you have with her.
Remind her how much you love her.
Ask her to do something with you.
Take her out to lunch.
Call her – just to talk.
God calls us to honor our Mother in the Bible, this bring honor to God. We should honor them with actions and attitudes as it says in Mark 7:6. Honoring our Moms is important to God. It’s not always easy, and not always fun depending on the circumstance but it is biblical and it pleases the Lord, Colossians 3:20.
I understand some of us have unique situations that make this tough to do. Still this is the woman who gave you life. She brought you into the world and she deserves honor for that alone. She is who God used to bring you into this world. Even if she was not the best example in your life or your greatest cheerleader however respect is sometimes earned because of the title. This is one thing the country seems to be losing is respect for position. We can disagree with people and the way they live and still honor and respect them.
Looking back it’s not the elaborate things that stand out in my memory. It’s the sweet notes left on my pillow by kids. It’s the time they got up early and made pancakes that spelled “mom”. The times my kids asked me their opinions and really listened to my advice. Watching my kids serve others when they didn’t want to. Even having them work long hard hours by my side because they understood the mission was more important than what they wanted to do. I challenge you this Mother’s Day to find a unique way that means something and adds value to your moms life – then celebrate her like that.
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