Happy Mother's Day!

I have recently been reminded of my fascination with Mary, the mother of Jesus. She was just a teenager when she was told that she would soon be expecting. Even though that news came from an angel, it must have been troubling.

“How can this be since I am a virgin?” Mary asks.

She’s not asking for just the biological mechanics of how she is to become pregnant. She is also thinking of the social stigma that came with ‘out of wedlock’ pregnancy. It was socially unacceptable to say the least. She was thinking of the looks she would receive from the other women in town and the words she would hear from the priests at the temple and the disappointment from her parents not to mention Joseph…what would Joseph think?

Yet after all is explained and the weight of it is on her shoulders, her words reveal the depth of her faith and trust in God as she says, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38)

The years after that are filled with adventure as she gives birth to the Son of God (try to put yourself in her sandals and wrap your brain around that) in a barn.

Think of the terror of losing him after a family trip to Jerusalem. (Luke 2:42-49)

Think of how cool it was to ask him for a miracle at a friend’s wedding knowing (how did she know??) he would come through. (John 2:1-10)

See her concern as she races to him when she hears a rumor that he has lost his mind. (Mark 3:31-34)

Imagine her pride swelling, as do the numbers of the crowds that gather as they witness the jaws drop at his teaching and his miracles.

Feel her rage at those who falsely accuse him.

Sense her disgust at those who cry, “Crucify him”

Imagine her utter brokenness when they do.

There can be no doubt that the broken figure standing beneath the cross with John has been and will always be his number one fan on earth.

Moms have a way of lifting us up even in our darkest days. My mom has always been my biggest fan. She was always there: at my concerts, my graduations, expressing pride at my accomplishments and sharing sorrow at my setbacks. No matter how dark the road ahead, my mom is always at my side, proud to be there just because it is me.

Moms are that way. Be sure to take some time this weekend to express your appreciation to your biggest fan.