It was my joy to have my mother, Donna McAdow Shoop, worship with us last Sunday for her birthday, along with her close friends, Mary Lou #1 and #2! With Mother’s Day this Sunday, it seemed only appropriate to say “thanks” to all our Moms for the sacrifices made for each of us. I know my Mom provided much stability in our home as my Dad worked various shifts at Texaco Refinery in West Tulsa. We were blessed to have a “stay at home Mom” who rarely did – because she was so involved in our church, school activities, Homeroom Mom, family chauffer to Church choir, piano lessons, etc. I lovingly referred to her as “Lead-foot McAdow” because she always made sure we arrived on time! She cooked great meals for us – even though my sister and I would’ve chosen fewer beets, lima beans, spinach and other “healthy” vegetables. She made a tasty potato salad, Waldorf salad, and of course, banana pudding – a family favorite! She kept us in clean clothes and even washed my greasy Casa Bonita Mexican Food Restaurant clothes several times a week while I was in high school! My Mom continues to give herself to others, including her five grandchildren. We’re so very blessed!

Did you know Mother’s Day is really a Methodist holiday? The idea came from a Methodist schoolteacher who never married. She wanted to honor her mother following her passing and remembered how her mother helped organize Mother’s Friendship Day picnics in West Virginia to help heal the wounds after the Civil War. Anna M. Jarvis obtained a patent for the phrase “Mother’s Day,” and pitched her ideas to congressmen, senators, clergy and “The White House” to create a national observance for all mothers. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making Mother’s Day a national observance and designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Why are carnations associated with Mother’s Day? It was Anna Jarvis’ Mom’s favorite flower.

Blessings to all our Moms and all of us blessed by them!

Yours in Christ,
Mark

P.S. It’s Pentecost Sunday, too. So if can, be sure to wear red and/or white to Church this Sunday! See you there for a special surprise!