May is the month we celebrate Mother's Day. Mothers everywhere will receive the traditional box of chocolates, dinner at their favorite restaurant, flowers, or a homemade macaroni card, creating memories that will last throughout the rest of their (our) lifetime.

My favorite mother in the Bible is Mary. There is much to learned from Mary. She was chosen to be the mother of the Jesus. She was human, so she wasn't perfect, but the Bible says that she was highly favored, and blessed among women. And yet she started her journey home from the temple in Jerusalem without him when He stayed behind. (You can't take your eyes off them for one second! Some things never change.) "He said, "Why were you looking for me? Didn't you know that I had to be here, dealing with the things of my Father?" But they had no idea what he was talking about. So he went back to Nazareth with them, and lived obediently with them. His mother held these things dearly, deep within herself. And Jesus matured, growing up in both body and spirit, blessed by both God and people." - Luke 2:49-52 - The Message

(I am thankful that Mary's reaction of pondering and patience was recorded. My own reaction may have been, "Boy, don't you sass me!")

Mothers have a special role in life. We must gather our strength in our busy lives and teach our children of all ages the ways of the Lord, by word, and behavior; by Mary's example. Mothering doesn't stop when your children are grown! And these days, I am seeing the influence I can have on my grandchildren, as well.

I have often wondered about Mary's role as the Mother of Jesus. I can't help but think of her teaching her son the ways of God - until He grew mature enough to teach them to her.

- Patsy Gaffney -