“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart”—Luke 2:19.

I sing about the love of my mother and celebrate her heart today. Many have loved me over the years, but your love, Ma, surpasses them all. It began when you conceived me, and the Master Craftsman “fearfully and wonderfully” weaved me in your womb (Ps. 139:13-14). Your tender strokes on your tummy gladdened my heart and brought a smile to my face then. O, how I wish you could have seen it! You endured the pains, discomfort, and restlessness of pregnancy and lovingly carried me till childbirth. Even when you vowed not to have another child at my birth, your heart communicated your joyful expectation of seeing my face. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, I confess how comfortable and secure you made me feel coming into this world and how eager I was to see your face for the first time. So, when you gripped my father’s hands and with sweat on your brow, finally pushed with a scream, I cried with joy to know that we’ve both survived. Thank you, Ma!

​Even though I was naughty over the years and gave you much heartache, your love never failed. You agonized through sleepless nights when the fever would not leave me. Your tender breasts became my tranquilizer between sobs in the midnight hour. Your tender love stood firm, communicating warmth and assurance through your gentle touch, whispers, and singing.

​You did not deny me any good thing growing up. Your wise counsel directed my decisions and protected me from harm. Best of all, you gave me the most precious gift of life – the love of Christ. You led me gently to the foot of the cross where mercy and grace embraced me through faith in Christ Jesus (Eph. 2:8-9). There, I received my second birth (John 1:12-13). There is nothing I can give to pay for your love, Ma, but this assurance I can offer you.

As your strength ebbs away, I want to assure you of my love, devotion, and care. Though the world offers me the moon and my hectic profession pulls me from you, I pledge to suffer through the same displeasure and sacrifices you made for me growing up. This song is my token of love for you.

           How can I forget the Many things you’ve given me in life? How can I despise your Old age? Your Tears still flow from your travail in prayers for me. Your Heart still beats for me. How can I not see your Eyes shining with love? Can I continue denying that you were Right when I stubbornly challenged you on many issues? Oh, how glad I am that you, MOTHER, did not give me over to my folly!

           So, on this Mother’s Day (Francophone), I am proud to call you my sweet mother. To love you back, maybe not as much as you’ve loved me, but enough to shed a little light through your dimming eyes and to put a little smile on your face.

Happy Mother’s Day, the Francophone way.