“I'm peculiar.”

If she said it once, she said it a million times. That was my mom. For a number of years, my sister and her son lived with our mom. My nephew always lovingly told her she was “weird.” Her response? “I’m not weird; I’m just peculiar!”

She was correct. As one of God’s treasured possessions she was peculiar. Exodus 19:5a (KJV) says, “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people.” Other versions define it as “special treasure,” “treasured possession,” or something similar.

God separated his people to be a peculiar bunch, to make his name known, and to be a glory to him among all people. And that was Mom. Peculiar! What made her that way? She had an uncommon faith and a great strength. Though understandably shaken after her husband died suddenly, her strength bolstered her to continue living.

A godly mother

Mom was always full of grace, class, and love. By today’s standards, she would be considered old-fashioned. Being a fashionista never entered her mind. She could not have cared less about being “in fashion” but she was always well-dressed. She hadn’t changed her hairstyle in about 50 years, but it was always perfectly combed.

Everyone who knew her thought her to be a true lady. Known for her life in Christ, she shared her distinguishing qualities of generosity and caring with everyone. She was always ready to give a bear hug to those who wanted one. Though she suffered from arthritis, back, and breathing problems, she rarely complained. Mom died two days before her 84th birthday in 2008.

Unfortunately, not every child is blessed to have a godly mother. Some mothers are negative, abusive, cold, or uncaring. Some even abandon their children. Many adverse circumstances shape a mother’s life and contribute to her behavior. Maybe you have a mom who behaved badly toward you, abandoned you, or did not provide all that you needed from her. Maybe she was or is the farthest thing from the example of a godly mother.

Honor your mother

Scripture says, “Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you” (Deut. 5:16a, NKJV). I know that in some cases this is extremely difficult to do, but this verse comes with a promise. It goes on to say, “…that your days may be long, and that it may be well with you in the land which the Lord your God is giving you.” This promise not only applied to God’s people Israel; it applies to us today as well.

Oh, how I miss my peculiar mom. I wish I could tell her once more that I love her and give her one of those bear hugs she loved so much. She left me my spiritual heritage, the greatest gift she ever gave me besides physical life.

Don’t miss out on telling your mom that you love her. You never know when it might be your last time to tell her. If you do not have a godly heritage from your mother, be the first to start it for your future family. Live out your life as one whose heart is filled with the love of God.

I pray that you become that Peculiar Mom.


Photo Credit: Theresa Martell