Day 281: My Mother’s Legacy (and the day she birthed me)

Psalm 139
“For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother’s womb.
I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them.”

Proverbs 31: 28-29
“Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying:
‘Many daughters have done nobly,
But you excel them all.'”

If she were still alive, my mother would be 101 years old and, even though she has been in her heavenly home for twenty-seven years, she continues to leave a mark on her family and all those who knew her. We delight in the memories, enjoy her recipes, display her needlework, continue to be in awe of her many talents and inspired by her courage. Nearly every day I come across something of hers that triggers a memory. I was sharing with someone recently that for a long time I received comfort whenever I caught the fragrance of her perfume on a hankie, blanket or clothing that I had acquired after her passing. Eventually I changed my own signature scent to hers so that I would have a part of her with me. The painting posted today makes me smile, reminding me that she always had me stand on a chair so she could pin the hems of dresses she lovingly created for me. Mom became a Christian late in her life. Knowing where she would spend eternity gave her great comfort in her last years.

Today is my birthday, and I have reached the age she was when she left for her heavenly home. Celebrating another year of life causes me to reflect on a my life and how God formed me in my mother’s womb, created my frame in secret, and knows every single day of my life from beginning to end. I pray that I would live according to His will and continue to model my life after my mother’s life, one that mirrors many of the verses from Proverbs 31. She left a legacy of love, honor and devotion to her family and friends. Happy Birth-day, Mom! Thank you for giving me life, and a legacy of love. You are loved and missed.

Dear Heavenly Father, may those of us who are mothers be inspired, influenced and challenged by those who have gone before us. May we model for our children and grandchildren an unswerving love for and obedience to You. May we be women of authenticity, integrity, faithfulness and wisdom, we pray, as we nurture our families and those You bring across our path. In Christ’s name and for the sake of Your kingdom. Amen.