Mother's Day in the US. We gather to celebrate mothers. Sort of. Actually it's the day when greeting card companies and assorted retailers pressure us to remember mothers by purchasing their merchandise. Yep. That one day. I have a better idea.

I see things differently--you may have noticed--and I've decided it isn't becoming a mother that's so special. Not downplaying that at all, but the vast majority of women can naturally become mothers and pretty much all the rest can by adoption. Then what's special about mothers?

It isn't the compassion. Not all mothers have been loving or caring. Nor the status. Many cultures honor and revere mothers while others treat them as servants. And it isn't that each of us has had one. Plenty of mothers have seldom, if ever, been present in the lives of their children.

Again, what's so special about mothers? Well, it isn't about simply becoming or being a mother. It's about "motherhood". There's something special here. And it isn't limited to mothers or women.

When I consider great mothers I've known, I immediately think of my mother, mother-in-law, and wife---Martha Swanson, Ruth Smith, and Beverly Graham, in that order. (OK, I'm biased. Plus, you know they're going to read this and I haven't yet bought a card or appropriate merchandise.)

Each of these ladies, in vastly different ways, has exhibited something about motherhood that is the key to everything---they gave their lives away. Whether working long grueling hours at home or behind a desk, they cared and provided for their children, focusing on the needs of their families rather than what they might desire for themselves.

Most important has been the sharing of their faith. God is important to them. Following Jesus has meant something. And while no one is always perfect (except my wife), they set an example which has influenced the lives of their children and grandchildren.

The Greek word, hupodeigma, means "an exhibit or demonstration for the purpose of imitation". After Jesus humbled Himself as a servant and washed the Disciples' dirty feet, this word appears in John 13:15: I have set you an EXAMPLE that you should do as I have done for you.

Jesus wasn't speaking of personal hygiene. He established a new standard, one considered more the responsibilities of mothers than men. And His message was clear: "Become the people I've called you to be. Learn from the women who follow me. Love, encourage, care for, and serve others. Give your lives away."

Paul wrote a lot about the example we've been called to follow. No one should seek his own good, but the good of others...Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:24, 11:1) ...set an example in speech, life, love, faith and purity. (1 Timothy 4:12b) ...in humility consider others better than yourselves. (Philippians 2:3b)

Peter, befitting his personality, was more blunt. Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that YOU should follow in His steps. (1 Peter 2:21b)