Saturday, July 25, 2015

Mother Blessing

It is tradition to hold a “Baby Shower” for an expecting mother.  This is a gathering to “shower” her with support, love, and gifts for both her and the baby.  During this time the participants sometimes play some games, have some cake or snacks, and encourage the expectant mother as she begins the new journey of motherhood (or continues it with the arrival of another child).

Let's get some Musica going first.

Last month a sweet friend invited me to participate in what is called a “Mother Blessing”.  I had never been to one before, and was intrigued to learn about it.  Essentially, instead of the traditional “Baby Shower” with gifts, games and food, a “Mother Blessing” is a more spiritual way to honor and encourage an expectant mother.   Traditional, tangible gifts were not expected, as this was to be purely the gift of faith, blessings and encouragement. 

I was asked to bring a poem, song, prayer, words of wisdom, or scripture to share with the mommy-to-be.  It was really wonderful to hear what all of the ladies had to share with their words of wisdom, and different scriptures.  There was a beautiful surrounding of love for the honored mother-to-be.  We laughed, shared, and prayed, enjoying this special time to its fullest.  Each one of us brought a printed version of what we’d shared with our “mommy-to-be”, and she was so grateful to have them so she could (in her own words) “read them again and remember this time and what everyone shared”. 

What a fabulous idea, right?  How special is it to gather with other women who want to share their love for each other, and the love God has for us, with this expecting mommy?  I have to tell you – this was truly a beautiful moment that not only blessed the mommy-to-be, but me as well.

I thought I would share with you what the Lord had impressed on me to bring this sweet new mother.  Not that my words were anything better than those of my other kind friends, but I don’t have copies of what they shared.  Perhaps this will inspire you to have a “Mother Blessing” with an expecting friend.

Dear _____,
It is with great joy that I learn of the blessing God has given you in expecting your first child.  Here are a few scriptures and thoughts that I wanted to share as we celebrate with you.

Psalm 127:3
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”  (ESV)

What a blessing children are, and indeed a gift and heritage from the Lord.  When God chooses to allow us to become parents, He is entrusting us with not only the physical well-being of those children, but also the spiritual well-being.  This verse speaks to the great reward we are given by God as He entrusts us with the lives of these dear little ones.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”  (ESV)

Paul wrote this in his letter to Timothy, who served the Lord alongside him and who he considered to be like a son.  These particular verses remind us, as parents, that in God’s Word we can find the truth and direction we need in our lives, especially as we raise our children to love the Lord.  As we seek what to teach our children, we can be assured that everything in God’s Holy Word is profitable, and well worth instilling in their lives.  Not only so they know the Truth, but so they can become equipped to handle the world around them with God’s power, strength, wisdom and love.

3 John 1:4
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”  (ESV)

John, the beloved disciple of Jesus Christ, wrote this in his letter to Gaius in the book of 3rd John.  While he was referring to those he knew who were still remaining strong in their Christian faith, it applies so greatly to the joy you’ll feel as a parent when your children are walking in the truth of God’s Word and obeying His commands.  When you live as Christ commands, and teach your children the same, then your joy will come when they seek the Lord, and walk in His Truth.

As for basic motherly wisdom, my suggestions to you are these:

Every morning greet your child with a smile, a hug, and tell them you love them. 
Let “I Love You” be the words they hear when they start their day, any time you have to leave them, and when they end their day. 
Hold your child as often as you can. 
Lift them in prayer to the Lord as much as you can. 
Show your child what it means to be a follower of Christ, and teach them the Word of God. 
When their actions disappoint you, reassure them as you discipline them that it is their actions that you are disappointed with - not them - and when you are done, always give them a hug and tell them that you love them. 
Read to them as often as you can, and encourage lots of play time and an active imagination. 
Spend time with them.  Housework and other things can wait. 
And always tell your child that you love them.
                                                                                               
May your lives be filled with God’s love and blessings!

And may your lives, dear ones, be filled with God’s love and blessings!
Hugs to you!

4 comments:

  1. A nice tradition and reminds me that the older women are to teach the younger. Your words of wisdom will bless her and the baby more than the material gifts could.

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    1. Thank you for stopping by Anita! Yes - wisdom is the greatest gift we have to share. Coupled with the love shared with one another, these are worth more than material gifts. Hugs to you!

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  2. I love this idea. Thanks for sharing it.

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    1. Thank you for visiting Debbie! It really is a wonderful celebration, and worthy of sharing. Hugs to you!

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