While it is wonderful that we set aside one day to especially honor mothers, let us reflect for a moment on all of the things mothers do for us.  First of all, they bring us into the world through a biological miracle that is amazing, but certainly not easy.  Then they spend the next two decades preparing meals, solving problems, kissing boo-boos, helping us learn everything from how to brush our teeth to how to navigate the difficulties of the "real world."  They spend the rest of their lives fretting and worrying about us.  They care for us in a way that is beyond words.  They sacrifice for us in ways beyond words.  Even after they have passed on, and Mother's Day can be especially difficult for those of us who have lost mothers, their influence is so powerful that it stays with us always.  I propose that one day is not enough.  One day is nice, but it is not enough.

So while we take this day to especially honor mothers, let us think of it as a planning day.  How can we honor our mothers, grandmothers, mother-in-laws, and aunts each and every day?  How can we recognize their special contributions to our lives every day?  Let us take a moment to jot down five ways we can truly honor mothers, from our own mothers to the young mothers in this congregation, to the mothers who might be missing their grown up kids, to mothers who may have passed away. (Give a few moments to allow individuals to jot down their list.  You may provide a few moments at the end of the sermon or at the end of the service to return to these lists and allow people to share their ideas with each other.)  Now, let us make a commitment to honor these women every day of the year because one day is not enough!