Happy Day!

I ran across this pic the other day.  In this photo, my mom is the same age as I am now.  I mean, like exactly 9 weeks after her 49th birthday this was taken.  I had my 49th birthday 9 weeks ago today.  Why does she look so much younger?

By the time she was my age, Mom had raised 4 children to adulthood, had 8 grandchildren, went back to school, earned her degree and became a teacher.  While working full time, she also received her Master Degree, volunteered her time and talents, spent two years out-of-the-country teaching abroad...and the list goes on.  Twenty-two years later she is as busy as ever.

Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 25 about the Kingdom of God.  He says it is like a man who travels to a far away country, leaving talents with his servants.  To one he gives 5, another 2, another 1.  My mom is one of God's servants who received many talents.  God knew He could trust her to use those talents and multiply them.

Not only does she serve in her church and community, but she has always gone above and beyond as a mom and grandmother.  She has always treated us as individuals, considering our own unique personalities, gifts and talents.  I marvel that even at age 70, she gives weekly art lessons to one of her 7 year old granddaughter. Four of her grandsons have lived with her and Dad, including my own son during his last year of college.  She richly gives and invest her time in the lives of  others. 

Even stray animals seem to find their way to her home, knowing she will feed them and care for them. Her compassion naturally extends to animals too.

My mom is truly multi-talented.  Her creative, generous spirit is a reflection of the Father.  I can't wait to see what God gives Mom to do when she gets to heaven.  "His lord said, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord."

I love you Mom!  Happy Mother's Day.