“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live for a long time in the land the Lord your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12 God’s Word).

It is interesting that after the Hebrews left Egypt God expected the people of Israel to love and serve their One and True God in order to live peaceably in the land of their ancestors. But note that the same promise comes from showing respectful love to parents!

As Paul noted when writing to the Greek city of Ephesus in what is now Turkey:

“Children, obey your parents because you are Christians. This is the right thing to do.  ‘Honor your father and mother that everything may go well for you, and you may have a long life on earth.’ This is an important commandment with a promise” (Ephesians 6:1-3 God’s Word).

The tulips and daffodils under our hydrangea tree taken May 8

The tulips and paper whites under our hydrangea tree taken May 8

This is my first post this month. I don’t regret that because I have been doing extra duty in caring for my Mother since her operation. (She is recovering extremely well!) That includes some personal care, food preparation, housework, as well as a lot of outdoor work in the flower gardens which is her passion. (12 of the 17 beds are hers.) So it has been a lot extra for both my wife and I. Since my wife has been away on family matters a fair bit I have been keeping the home front secure, so to speak.

When I compare the years of care that my Mother gave us this seems like nothing.

So, I want to honour my Mother publicly along with all of you who honour your Mothers today. And maybe this kind respect and honourable action might model some good things for those who need hope.

I pray a blessing for all Mothers for what they need most.

And I thank God for the one who raised me.