Mother’s Day Mercy

All of you should be like-minded and sympathetic, should love believers, and be compassionate and humble. (1 Pet. 3:8)

My ex-husband pulled up in his convertible. Late as usual! Lili, my five-year-old, skipped up the walk. “Hi, Mommy! Happy Mother’s Day!” Rather than make a scene in front of Lili, I held my tongue. “Tell Daddy ’bye,” I said, hugging her. “We have a special day ahead.” Inside our apartment I changed her clothes, wiped her face, and tamed her curls. Then off we went.

At church the pastor’s message was not what I expected. Instead of speaking to mothers, he talked to fathers, urging them to be better husbands. What about those of us without husbands? I wondered. Am I the only single mom here? Never had I felt so left out at church.

For lunch Lili and I went to our favorite restaurant. I wanted to give us both a special memory. As we stood in the crowded lobby, Lili started talking to a little girl named Alice. “My mommy and daddy aren’t married anymore,” Lili told her. I felt tears prick my eyes as I gently pulled Lili into a hug. A moment later Alice’s grandmother leaned over and whispered, “Alice’s parents aren’t either.” Then she added, “Would you like to join us for lunch?” I smiled through tears at the woman who gave me a gift of mercy on Mother’s Day.

Although Mother’s Day is meant to be a day of celebration, it can be painful and isolating for some women, such as singles and women struggling with infertility. If you know a single mom, reach out to her by inviting her family to dinner or offering to help in some other way. Also be sensitive to women who want a family but have not been able to have children. If you are in either of these situations, take your heartache to God so He can comfort and encourage you.