Posted by: Apostle Frank Dzur

As we celebrate Mother’s Day – May 10th, the Fourth Commandment comes to mind “Honour your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise (Ephesians 6: 2). Our focus will rest upon our “Mothers” as we celebrate their day. To honour means to respect, esteem, regard, and fulfill an obligation or keep an agreement.

This commandment was the first commandment applying to interpersonal relationships and directed at people of all ages requiring them to extend the esteem and appreciation that is due to parents.  In the context of the Israelites migration to the promised land, Canaan, the children honoured the older members of their family by providing support.

Jesus placed a special emphasis on this commandment as an example in His relationship with His mother - even on the cross to commend her into the care of Apostle John (John 19:27). With the rich young man (Mark 10:17-19), as well as in His teaching activity among the Pharisees and Scribes (Mark 7: 9-13).

Apostle Paul, in several of his letters, mentions the Fourth Commandment expressing the obligations of both children and parents.  In other words, their relationship with one another is characterized by love, trust, and a God-pleasing conduct.

We realize that not every family dynamic is the same. The childhood experience can be different from one another. Some perhaps never knew their mother or experienced a loving relationship. Many others no longer have their mothers physically present. No matter the situation we find ourselves in, we can pause a moment to consider our mothers and reflect on that which we can be thankful for be it much or little.

All can give thanks for life! Many of us are thankful for the care and sacrifice our mothers gave in the course of our childhood and youth. This care extends beyond providing the necessities of life but includes the warmth of love, teaching of values, and spiritual direction. For many, our mothers taught us to pray, offer, and laid into our soul the value of God’s word and the sacraments. There is much more that could be said, however, our reflection leads to a thankful disposition which in turn moves us to honour and esteem our mothers every day. God’s blessing rests upon the fulfillment of the Fourth Commandment. Where possible, may we seize the opportunity to express and show our love and thanks for them.

This year may be different for many families as they are separated from their mothers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although physical distancing may be the reality, we still remain connected. Many will use technology and others may simply stand in front of a door, window, or at the end of a driveway to connect. Some have said farewell to their mother recently and others a long time ago. It is by our conviction of faith that we extend our thanks and greetings of love to our mothers in the departed realms. We remain connected in our prayers, our love, and the gratitude we extend them.

We wish all of our Mothers a blessed and happy Mother’s Day!