For those we call mothers– biological, adoptive, and spiritual mothers– for loving us more than we deserve, and giving us more than we can measure: I offer a flower to honor you.

For those who long to be mothers but the path of obedience thus far has not led them into marriage or motherhood: I offer a flower to honor you.

For those who risk hope month after month, waiting for God to bring you a child: I offer a flower to honor you.

For those who have held a child in your womb, or in your arms, and later committed them to God’s eternal embrace: a flower to honor you.

For those who were faithful to nurture and carry and then in love place their baby in the arms of another: a flower to honor you.

And for those who in fear and confusion, made different choices when faced with pregnancy, I offer a final flower. This flower is bright with forgiveness because two thousand years ago there was a barren place. In that barren place stood a splintered cross. And on that cross hung a Savior. This flower speaks of forgiveness, of peace, of hope, and of new beginnings.

“‘Honor you father and mother,’ which is the first commandment with a promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.'” Ephesians 6:2

Lord, we honor those who’ve shown love. Comfort the grieving, counsel the questioning. Let Your hand of blessing rest upon Your daughters.

An excerpt from “Pure Joy”