Mothers

When Andy Murray is playing tennis, the television producers often focus on his mother. When Michael Phelps is winning (or not) at swimming, the producer focuses on his mother. Why is that?

As Ian Thorpe (aka Thorpedo), the retired Australian swimming phenomenon and BBC pundit, said, 'Without their mothers, these guys would never have become good or great sportsmen.' I guess Zara Philips might be thinking the same, as she received her silver medal with the other members of the Equestrian team. 

When we lived in Culcutta, it was my mother who used to take me to early morning swimming training, when I was an 8 year old! 

The Bible is full of praise for mothers, whose role in the lives of their children is so significant.

In most cases, our mothers are our first teachers. ' The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him. ' (Proverbs 31.1)

St. Paul was aware that his friend, Timothy, was set on the right path by bis mother and grandmother. ' I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.' (2 Timothy 1.5)

Jesus was clearly taught and loved by his mother, whose own spiritual insight has been an inspiration to many. When she had had the surprise visit from Gabriel, her response is astonishing (we call it the Magnificat) '“Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.  

    How my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour!
⁴⁸ For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,
    and from now on all generations will call me blessed.
⁴⁹ For the Mighty One is holy,
    and he has done great things for me.' (Luke 1.47-49)

While we praise God for mothers, let us also remember to pray for them, in their roles as teachers, carers, supporters and so much else. As a poet has said, 'The hand the rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world'

Best wishes,

Richard