The Apostle John writes a very short little letter (3 John) to a young disciple named Gaius. He sees this young man as a son and refers to him as his “child” throughout the letter. He commends this son for living “the truth.” Of course, to John, the truth was living according to the teachings of Jesus. He applauds and encourages this young man for his faithful love and hospitality and commitment to Christ’s commands to love God and love others. He says in verse 4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” Isn’t that the most profound truth for all parents? The watch our children live ungodly, selfish lives, makes our hearts sick. But to see our children follow in the ways of the Savior gives us wonderful joy.
One of the things that my father used to exhort me and my brother about was how we treated our mother. One of the worst whippings I ever received was when I dissed (disrespected) my mother in front of a neighbor lady. I didn’t know my Dad had come home for lunch and was wiping his shoes off on the porch and over heard it all. I don’t remember exactly what I said, but I remember him throwing the door open and calling me out into the garage and taking his belt off and explaining to me, in no uncertain terms, the importance of respecting my mother. Fortunately for me, my sons were so much better in the way they treated their mother than I was. And nothing could have pleased me more. I couldn’t have more joy than to watch my sons honor and respect their mother as they always have.
The best mother’s day memories for our family are of when the boys were still at home. They always seemed to go out of their way to make their mother have a special experience on Mother’s day. They wanted her to know how much they loved her. They still do that today! That truly fills my heart with pride and joy! Nothing could give me greater joy!
Chuck
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother – this is the first commandment with a promise.” Ephesians 6:1-2