On May 8, the Greater Hartford church devoted a day to encouraging mothers. Each morning service began with a flower being handed out to each mom. From the greeting to the sermon and even on to a spectacular baptism – mothers were the focus.

In fact, at the 9 AM service, Kim Cleveland, a single mother, shared very powerfully about how watching her daughter go through a difficult time really helped her see Jesus on the cross and God’s reaction more clearly.
At 11:30 AM, Eartha Marquis was immersed. Some heart-felt sharing from Marjorie Heath, Audrey Fisher and Loida Nicholson preceded Eartha’s tears and words. Eartha has been around our congregation for 12 years. However, it was not until a traumatic health challenge that took her close to death which caused her to open her eyes to her need for God. She shared with her two children in the audience how much she desired them to know what is most important in life.
The sermon of the day centered on a tale of many mothers. Moses, in many respects, had two moms (Jochebed and Pharoah’s daughter) who directed him in positive ways. Timothy’s mother and grandmother are emphasized for their faith in the scripture (II Timothy 1:3-5). Jesus’ mother, Mary, even made a dramatic command in John 2:1-10 which would serve us well today (“Do whatever He tells you”). Lastly, God Himself is even compared to a mom in amazing ways in Isaiah 66:12-13 .
On a special day when the world stops to think of mothers, it was great for our church to exalt the spiritual role so many women play in our families and lives. Beyond that, it was inspirational to learn that we all have a shepherding role to play for others and the next generation similar to that of a loving mom.

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