One Christian's Perspective on Trials and Other Aspects of American Life

Archive for May, 2014

Do They Still Need a Mom?

Yesterday was Mother’s Day, and I was blessed to hear from all of my children. They are all grown and out of our home now, busy with their own lives and living in three different states. I was thankful to hear from them, knowing that it took some effort on their parts to connect with me and wish me a Happy Mother’s Day. Of course, we talk and text other days as well, but it’s still nice to know they were thinking of me and honoring me as their mom. My role in their lives is different now, no longer responsible for feeding them, doing their laundry, driving them wherever they need to go, and all of the other daily tasks I did when they were growing up. It’s very satisfying as a mom to know that they can take care of themselves out there in the big world! 

I called my mother yesterday, too, wanting to honor her and let her know that I love her. I am so very thankful for my mom, for her unconditional love, for her example of what a godly woman should be, and for a multitude of other ways she has blessed our family. For many years, she has done something very important for our family: she has prayed for each family member by name. Before my dad went to be with Jesus in 2002, they prayed together every morning for us. Over the years, our family has grown in number with the addition of spouses and children. Our original nuclear family numbered 5, and we have been blessed to grow to a family that now numbers 26. My mom’s prayer time has increased greatly as our family’s size grew! I have no doubt but that her role as a prayer warrior has been the most important one of all, keeping all of us covered in prayer daily. 

Now that my children are grown and on their own, do they still need a mom? Maybe not as cook and chauffeur, but as a prayer warrior on their behalf. That may be the most important role of all. During the busy years of raising a family, there were days when my prayer time consisted of “Lord, help!” spoken numerous times during the day. However, we knew that our parents were holding us up in prayer, and those prayers got us through many days. I know that my childrens’ lives are busy and their days are full, and the MOST important thing I can do for them is to pray. I can’t be with them every minute, trying to take care of their every need, nor should I do that! That is not my place any more. Even as I STILL need my mother’s prayers, the greatest honor I have as a mom of adult children is to pray for them. Holding them before the Lord, praying for His protection and blessing in their lives, is the best thing I can do for each of them. It is a privilege to intercede on behalf of my children, knowing that I am taking them before the throne of God and placing them in His very capable hands. Colossians 1:9 says: “Be assured that…we haven’t stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to His will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. We pray that you’ll live well for the Master, making Him proud of you as you work hard…” What more could a mom ask? There is no safer place for my children to be than in the hands of God!

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A Very Special Gift

Shortly before my husband and I left Texas for Washington, DC last week, I realized that we would be in the nation’s capital on the National Day of Prayer, May 1. Having participated in related local prayer events for many years, I knew that there was always an observance in Washington which was led by many Christian leaders. I’ve always wondered about this gathering, and even thought about how special it would be to attend. When a friend who attended the event in the past was able to give me some information about the entrance procedures, I decided to try, not knowing whether or not I would be able to get in. Navigating the Metro at morning rush hour was interesting, and I was very glad we had been over the same route the day before. When I arrived at the appointed place, I got in line and, ten minutes before the opening prayer, I was able to be seated. What a great gift! Thank You, Lord!

It was very special to be able to see and hear in person many Christian leaders who have been faithful in standing for family and biblical values for so many years. These were not people seeking fame or notoriety, just people who were living their lives in obedience to God’s Word. Some were involved in Christian ministry, others in government as legislators and judges, some served in the U.S. military, all simply doing what they believed God had called them to do. 

The theme for this year’s observance was “One Voice United in Prayer”. The honorary chairman of this year’s event was Ann Graham Lotz, daughter of Billy and Ruth Bell Graham and sister of Franklin Graham. Her words were absolutely anointed as she spoke forcefully to the American Christian community, using the book of Joel, chapter 1, as her text. The main message: It’s time for America to WAKE UP! As she spoke with conviction about the urgency of the response of all who count themselves among the American church, there was no doubt but that we had been given marching orders going forward. The prayer she led us in at the conclusion of the service included these words: “So we choose to stop pointing our finger at the sins of others, and examine our own hearts and lives. We choose to acknowledge our own sins–our neglect and defiance and ignorance and even rejection of You. This day we choose to repent.”  This Day of Prayer was a beginning, not an end. We as Christians must cry out in prayer for our country. The only hope for restoration of the blessings which America has enjoyed is repentance and revival. IT’S TIME!

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