Today is observed as "Mother's Day" by many people in the world. While the setting aside of an entire day is a great tribute for such a special person in our lives, the Bible has also seen fit to honor mothers by putting forth specific obligations to be met by children. It is from these Scriptures that I learn of some things I owe my mother.

First, I must honor my mother. Paul instructs children to obey their parents in the Lord, and then follows up with a quotation from the Old Law, "'Honor your father and mother,' which is the first commandment with promise" (Eph. 6:2). The word honor is translated from a Greek word that means "to fix a valuation upon." Think about that for a moment. How much is your mother worth? How can you or I determine the worth of our mother?! What amount could we possibly choose?! Think of everything your mother has done for you. Where would we be without our mother?! The idea behind this command is that we arrive at the proper estimation of her worth and then treat her accordingly.

I am to honor my mother by giving her the appropriate praise. Of the virtuous woman of Proverbs 31, it was said, "Her children rise up and call her blessed" (Prov. 31:28). Kind words spoken in a kind and respectful tone are the very least I can do for my mother.

I also honor my mother in the way I live as her son. "A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is the grief of his mother... A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother" (Prov. 10:1; 15:20). As I look back upon my life, I find that the moments I am most ashamed of are the times I have disappointed my mother; the times that I failed to bring her honor in the way I spoke and lived as her son. This obligation continues throughout life. As I write this piece, I realize not everyone reading it still has their mother. That doesn't mean you no longer have an obligation to honor her in the way you live.

Another obligation I have is to heed the wise counsel of my mother. "My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother... My son, keep your father's command, and do not forsake the law of your mother" (Prov. 1:8; 6:20). My mother loves me and wants what is best for me. Throughout my life I have sought her counsel and advice regarding a great number of things. While I may have rejected her warnings and instructions in the foolishness of my youth, her words are not easily discarded today. I don't call my mother as often as I probably should, but when we do talk, she has my attention. I still need her advice.

Finally, the Scriptures indicate that, if the day ever comes, I will need to care for my mother in her old age. "But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God" (1 Tim. 5:4; cf. vs. 3-16). Small children are dependent upon their parents for their needs. As I asked above, where would we be today if it wasn't for our mother? It is God's will that this care be returned when our parents need it in their old age. Many of our parents have made financial preparations for their golden years. They have paid into pensions and Social Security. However, despite these preparations and programs, there will still be times when my mother will need help. I can't expect someone else to take care of her. She is my mother (well, my sister also has an obligation, which she is willing to fulfill as well).

Mother's Day is a very special day for many of us. It is nice to send cards, make phone calls, give gifts, and make sure Mom has the special day that she deserves. However, the Christian must remember that God has long ago recognized the importance of mothers, and His word calls for us to honor, praise, heed, and care for them.