You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16 New Living Translation (NLT)
One thing I can say with certainty is that mama’s light was bright enough for all who encountered her to see. In that way, she was a living example of God’s love.
If you are a regular reader of my blog then you already know mama. Sometimes she is referred to directly. Other times, she quietly lingers between the lines. Either way, she is always present in just about every post that I write.
Oh, just so you know, mama’s given name was Eva. She passed away a few years ago so in recognition of Mother’s Day, I’d like to tell you a little more about her.
Ok, let me start by saying that mama was something of a paradox. In fact she was the personification of the adage “You should never judge a book by the cover.” At first glance she often appeared to be aloof and unengaged. However, a closer look would have revealed that she was actually quite warm and kindhearted. In any case, people were automatically drawn to her. Suffice it to say, there was something disarming about her demeanor that encouraged folks to lean in closer.
Bearing this in mind, I have come to appreciate the fact that mama was a universal ‘mother’ whose influence extended well beyond the three children that she birthed. In essence she advised, taught, consoled, cared for, comforted and united a motley crew of followers. While some of them started out as strangers, most of them ended up as family.
Yes friends, when Eva walked this Earth she maintained a countless number of devotees and each of them sought refuge at her place whenever they needed to.
So if you were looking for the broke young railroad worker who was waiting for his first paycheck, you would have found him over at Eva’s having a good hot meal.
If you were looking for the German lady who felt homesick and isolated, you would have found her over at Eva’s making a connection.
If you were looking for the scared latch key kid, you would have found her over at Eva’s feeling more secure.
If you were looking for the young gay man who felt rejected, you would have found him over at Eva’s experiencing acceptance.
Clearly Ms. Eva set a very high standard. At her place, she provided much needed light to those who had been navigating in darkness.
Earlier this year I decided to find a broader way in which to pick up where she dropped off; so I started this blog.
Ultimately, I’d like to see this blog become a virtual version of Ms. Eva’s place. Basically, I envision a digital sanctuary for all who are seeking light.
Yes, I recognize that this is a tall order but I think mama would approve ❤ 🙂
Happy Mother’s Day!
