Psalm 35:14 I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourns for his mother. The death of a true mother is a great event in the life of any one. It can occur but once in a lifetime. When it takes place in childhood, it is a sore calamity. A father can never supply a mother's place; seldom can any one else but very imperfectly. I. A MOTHER'S DEATH REMINDS US MOST STRONGLY OF THE PECULIAR BLESSINGS CONFERRED BY GOD THROUGH THE MATERNAL RELATION. A mother's influence is the first felt: it acts at the very fountain-head of life, it is gentle, tender, winning. Her smile greets the first dawn of intelligence: her voice is the first guide and encouragement to infant speech; her hand invites and sustains the first infant steps. From the pious mother's lips her children first learn the name of Jesus, and the words of prayer; from her example and instruction they receive the elements of virtue. II. THE DEATH OF A MOTHER OCCASIONS BITTER RECOLLECTIONS OF FILIAL DISOBEDIENCE AND NEGLECT. III. THE DEATH OF A MOTHER BREAKS UP THE HOME OF OUR EARLY DAYS, AND MAKES US FEEL THAT WE ARE ONLY SOJOURNERS HERE. IV. THE DEATH OF A MOTHER, ESPECIALLY OF AN AGED MOTHER, IS ADAPTED TO MAKE US SENSIBLE OF OUR NEARNESS TO ANOTHER WORLD. Conclusion. 1. I appeal to fathers. Remember what you owe your mothers, and teach your children, especially your sons, the deepest reverence for their mothers. 2. I appeal to mothers. Cherish a deep and constant sense of your own importance to your children, especially to your sons. 3. I appeal to those who have mothers living, especially to sons in early life. I entreat you, each of you, as you value your well-being for time and eternity, study well the will of God concerning your duty to your mothers, and strive to fulfil it. (J. M. Johnson.) Parallel Verses KJV: I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother. |
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