Over and over again she does the laundry.
Over and over again she prepares three meals a day plus creative snacks and party cupcakes.
Over and over again she changes diapers, wipes runny noses, cleans up messes, drives carpool, and attends recitals and games.
Over and over again.
Whether it is for one or more children, Mom is the heart of the home. She nurtures and guides; while also finding that lost ribbon, missing sneaker or misplaced school assignment.
Why would she want to repeat these countless performances?
The answer resounds: love.
Love is the motivator. Love causes the body to push when it would rather give in and sit for a while with a novel in hand. Love is demonstrated in every selfless act that expects nothing in return.
A re-read of I Corinthians 13 - the love chapter - may be in order.
Though usually read at weddings and repeated to couples throughout their marriages as a real test of how to love one's spouse, let's apply it to parenting.
If the laundry is done grudgingly without love's embrace, we've missed the point.
If the meals are prepared out of necessity, but without loving creative energy to please as well as nourish, then another chore is accomplished - minus the vital spice that turns mealtime into family time.
If a clean, content baby brings delight, tasks won't seem endless. If being her child's No. 1 cheerleader is genuinely expressed, Mom's enthusiasm will not go unnoticed.
According to I Corinthians 13: 8, NKJV, "Love never fails."
God has shown us his unfailing love through the giving of his Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Savior. God's parental love longs for us to delight in being his children - part of his family. Jesus is our example.
Therefore, with the Lord's guidance and strength, we can repeat the many tasks required to be a good mother.
In the place of duty, joy is expressed and children respond.
Over and over again smiles erupt as the infant knows his mother's face, touch and voice.
Over and over again little ones praise mom and thank God as their tummies are satisfied and they learn to pray at her knee.
Over and over again she receives hugs and sticky kisses for all the continual things she does to make her child's world healthy, safe and encouraging.
Over and over again the child returns the mother's love. Repeat performances moms just live for.
Happy Mother's Day! Selah
Jan Merop of Sebring is a News-Sun correspondent.
Sunday, May 10, 2009 - www.newssun.com/0510-pause