I quote my mother often. She influenced my life in so many ways. A one of a kind lady. One of the many things she tried so hard to teach me, I can almost hear her saying it, “put God first in your life and everything else will work out.” She was teaching me God’s Word and I didn’t even know it: “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33).
As we approach Mothers Day I want to honor the memory of my mother, Emma Khoda Rounds Bales. Not perfect by a long shot, but she loved her children and raised them up to the best of her ability. She loved roses. It was easy to make her happy on Mothers Day. Buy her roses or a rose bush.
The mother of our children, my wife Betty, helped me to understand how valuable it was to spend time with my mother. Once a month I would drive from Warren to Batesville and spend the day with my mom. Precious memories.
Her memory was getting worse with each visit. She did not want anyone taking care of her and often prayed that no one would have to, and her prayers were answered.
One morning her pastor called me and asked was I sitting down? I said yes and he proceeded to tell me my mom had cast off her house of clay, had made a departure from her pain and suffering. She had entered into the presence of the Lord. I cried, but she wasn’t crying anymore, for the Lord had dried all of her tears.
If your mother is still living, honor her! If she has moved into the presence of the Lord, honor her memory!