A Fitting Tribute

This past weekend many celebrated motherhood with fitting tributes given and received. Some mothers did not feel worthy, even if they were. Perhaps the most challenging issue parents experience is dealing with feelings of inadequacy for the task. Then too there are all those “what if” thoughts and questions. We all need to remember that our parents were on a learning curve when we were young. They did not have all the answers. They probably made mistakes, and guess what, the same holds true for us. Children cannot, for the rest of their natural lives, blame their own failings on the parenting skills nor the real or perceived inadequacies of their parents. Parents need to understand the wisdom found in this advice someone once gave me, “You have to do your best and leave the rest.”

Life is an ongoing journey of growth and maturing. No matter what our parents were or are like, each individual has a responsibility to grow, to become all they can be, and to thrive. A relationship with God facilitates this process. When you have a close relationship with God you gradually learn, grow and take on the mind and character qualities of God as you follow and embrace Biblical principles and truths. When you live with integrity you share your insights with your children and others the best you can.

One of my favourite Bible passages in regards to character and integrity is from Philippians 4:4-9. I believe the words would be a fitting tribute for any person regardless of their age or gender, or whether they are a parent or not. It is a good practice to personalize the Scriptures to make them a part of yourself. In honour of having just celebrated Mother’s Day, in the following paraphrase I have used the feminine pronouns and words in the present tense. You could insert your own name. Whomever you are, may it be said of you in this present life and in death, “She chooses to rejoice in the Lord always! I will say it again, she chooses to rejoice! She lets her gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. She chooses to not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, presents her requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding guards her heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, she chooses to think about these things. Whatever she has learned, or seen or heard from the Lord, she chooses to put it into practice, And the God of peace is with her.” Amen? AMEN!!

By: Rev. Maxine McLellan, Co-Pastor at Grace Church of the Nazarene, Shelburne ON

Published in the Orangeville Citizen and the Shelburne Free Press May 2018