May 13, 2012:

Proverbs 31 Today

The last chapter of the Book of Proverbs is frequently read at Memorial Services in honor of a mother we are laying to rest. The words are beautiful but I am afraid they are a bit antique. What might the writer say if describing contemporary women? Here is my presumptuous attempt to re-write scripture!

"How hard it is today to find a capable wife and mother! At least, to listen to some people, it seems hard. Personally, we have known many great wives and mothers. They are truly worth more than jewels.

Her family put their trust in her and whether we were rich or poor in things, we were never poor in love. As long as she lived she found ways to do good to her children. We remember all the work she did in our home. How she got it all done we never could understand. And what a cook she was!

She always was up first in the morning to prepare breakfast and get us all on our way to school or work. She was such a hard worker! I hope she knew how much we appreciated her. She was always doing something around the house even after we had gone to bed.

She certainly knew the value of money. She always seemed to know where to find a bargain. When she worked outside the home we admired her for what she achieved.

She saw to it that we were well-clothed. We remember how she made some of our clothes herself as well as curtains and other linens for the house. It might have been cold outside, but we were always warm.

She was generous to those in need. She showed love to so many people. Everyone she knew loved and respected her. She had a gentle wisdom that still guides us today. She believed in our future because she recognized our abilities.

When we think of her now, we hope she knew how much we loved her. She was a great mother. No one could have asked for a better. She will never be forgotten."

Love,
Dave