In the United States, Mother’s Day is celebrated the second Sunday in May. It was proclaimed a holiday in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson as a proclamation of love and appreciation for moms. This special day usually consists of honoring mothers with cards, flowers, candy or a special meal or gift.
While the Bible doesn’t call for a specific day for mothers, the first commandment does say to “‘Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” (Deuteronomy 5:16.) Although the holiday isn’t specifically observed by Christians, Mother’s Day is a good day to reflect on motherhood and for children to pay tribute to godly mothers.
Mother’s Day started as a celebration of Rhea, the mother of the Greek mythological gods. Early Christians also held a celebration the fourth Sunday of Lent to honor the Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ. Eventually, all mothers were included in the celebration. Some Christian’s wonder if it’s appropriate to celebrate Mother’s Day due to its pagan origins. Paul addresses a similar issue by stating, “One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord.”
Another justification for celebrating Mother’s Day is the praise in the Bible regarding motherhood and the influence mothers have as they raise their children in the church. God created mothers to “Be fruitful, and multiply and replenish the earth.” (Genesis 1:28) Motherhood is part of God’s plan for His world.
The Bible is filled with verses about honoring your mother and father. As Jesus hung on the cross, he commissioned John to care of his own mother while he was away. “Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her into his own home.” (John 19:27) Also, the Bible often tells of the importance of obeying your parents. “Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20)
Mother’s Day is the perfect day to spend with children and grandchildren. At The Gardens at Barry Road in Kansas City, Missouri, we honor all of the mothers in our care and work hard to provide a safe and caring environment every day.
