Mother’s Day. Many are looking forward to this day to celebrate mothers. Yet, we know of friends who struggle with this day.
As a son, I love the idea of honoring my mom. I understand this should be a daily thing but it is nice to know that there is this day of the year where mothers are praised. As a dad, I like the idea of a day where my children honor their mom. Again, I understand that this should be a lifestyle, not just a once a year event.
However, as a pastor that has come to hear stories of infertility, adoption, and miscarriages, I am acutely aware of how Mother’s Day may not be welcomed as others welcome it. Those who struggle with Mother’s Day are often invisible. Pain is often invisible unless we are the one feeling it, right? I wish I was more sensitive in the years’ past. I admit that I have been myopic and neglected to address the pains some people go through during Mother’s Day and also Father’s Day.
Don’t get me wrong. It is good and right to honor mothers and fathers. In fact, the Bible calls us to do so. Jesus does so with his own mother. Yet, the same Jesus was sensitive to those in pain. This is not because these women are bitter or envious. It is simply because they have been hurt badly in some way or another.
So as we sit in church this Sunday or at a restaurant surrounded by our loved ones to celebrate moms, let us also be aware of those around us. Really look at the people who are there and recognize that not all are celebrating. Also, notice who isn’t there; those who decided to stay home to maybe watch TV, read a book or do laundry. This celebration will be much more meaningful when we look at it from God’s perspective. I believe God understands all these. He celebrates with us. At the same time, he feels our pain. He cares for all moms. He cares for all women, mom or not.