Terri's Wellspring

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.   Ephesians 4:2 – 3 (NIV)

As young children the lessons of getting along with one another begin.  We are asked “to share”, “to be nice”, “don’t hit” and many other guiding instructions to promote harmony among toddlers.  The principle of unity and peace somehow becomes more obscure as we get older.  We may become less patient with one another, coarse in our words and opinions.  The public discourse in our country is the worst example of our abandonment of love, meekness and unity.  Paul encourages his fellow believers to make every effort to keep unity through the bond of peace.  It may mean showing kindness despite a perceived offense, it may mean going an extra mile to repair a relationship, it may mean forgiving someone before an apology; it may mean showing God’s love in every situation, no matter the circumstance.  Genuine love covers all things.  Our love for one another should demonstrate to the world that we are His children.  Let’s make every effort to show His love through our love and peace in our homes, our workplace and our communities.

Who can find a virtuous woman?  for her price is far above rubies.   Proverbs 31:10

We have heard this scripture so many times before. In Sunday School, I recently learned more about the word “virtuous”, which also denoted “power, strength, force, army”. This revelation actually gives this passage a whole new light and the description of this mighty woman of God more context. The rest of the chapter describes a woman who is a gifted wife, mother, business manager, and philanthropist with the highest level of character and respect of others.  She seems perfect and somewhat unattainable until I learned about this important aspect of the translation.  She is powerful, strong and capable due to her connection to God.  She is a mighty warrior for righteousness for her family and community.

As Mother’s Day approaches, it is a time to reflect on the mighty women who have made a difference in our lives; the women who have gone before us and the women who continue to travel with us today. I am so thankful for my mother, Marion Gene.  She has always been a source of pride, strength and encouragement for me.  The memories of my grandmothers, Nina and Marion are examples of faith, strength and survival for me.  Even the memory of my mother in law Jessie is a reminder of the faithfulness of our God.  I thank God for each of them and the blessing of my sisters & my sister friends – who provide love, support and joy along the journey.  I am so thankful for the gift of the mighty warriors in our lives.