Mother’s Day is normally a happy day, but for women who have lost children, the emphasis on honoring mothers accents their loss more keenly. I understand because I have experienced the death of a child. Perhaps you or someone you know has a hurting friend, and maybe some suggestions below will help ease her grief.
- Before, during, or after Mother’s Day, offer to take your grieving friend to lunch, to a play, or to visit a museum or art gallery. The gift of your time is a great way to show God’s love.
- Select an encouraging Mother’s Day card and send it with a note, letting her know that she is a worthy mother of honor.
- Do not be afraid to mention the child who died, and when you do, be ready to listen patiently is the mother wishes to talk about the child.
- Write the dates of the child’s birthday and death on your calendar. When those days are near, send a note or card, letting your friend know you will be praying for her on that day. Pray for her.
- Make a list of Scriptures that have comforted you during your trials and tests. Write one Scripture on a 3 x 5-inch card and share it with your friend.
- Acknowledge grieving children in the family by baking cookies just for them or giving them a small gift. Whatever you do for your friend’s children will minister grace to her.
- Be available to help with practical needs such as running errands, helping with household chores.
- If your bereaved friend has other children, offer to keep them one evening so she and her husband can have some time alone.
- Prepare a meal and deliver it in disposable containers.
- When you are with her, give her plenty of hugs.
Dear Father,
Please bless all Mothers this Mother’s Day, and give us comfort, peace, and assurance of your love. Regardless of our individual situations, help us to always remember that Your grace is sufficient for every need (2 Corinthians 12: 9). Thank you for your many blessings, especially the blessing of friendship.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen