By Cindy Vandermause

The Great Commandments found in Matthew 22 prompted me to reflect on this past Mother’s Day, especially the second part about loving people:

Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.

On holidays, like Mother’s Day, we can tend to focus on cards and gifts. What is someone going to give me? How am I going to be celebrated? How is this day going to be special for me?

None of my children live near me so I don’t see them on a daily basis. Jenny is a busy mom of three living across the state. David has established his career and life in Milwaukee. Rachel is traveling abroad for a year or so and is currently in India. Jon is finishing up his senior year of college in New Hampshire. So I wasn’t sure what this Mother’s Day would bring.

Whether near or far, my children loved me well on Mother’s Day weekend ... not with presents but with their presence. Each one reached out in a unique way to express love. There was a long walk, a tight hug with an “I love you, Mom,” a phone call, a text expressing admiration and gratitude, a 24-mile bike ride, and sweet conversation over a gourmet meal.

They each made a choice to give their time and their presence, which made this mama’s heart full. Who can you love and give your presence to today?

Cindy Vandermause is guest relations director at Green Bay Community Church