A Mother's Morning Psalm

By Jennifer Anne F. Messing

Thank you, Lord, for each new day that unveils pathways of discovery and delight. I am grateful to awaken beside this wonderful man to whom I pledged my lifelong love. His tenderness warms me, protects me; his companionship satisfies the empty, aching places in my heart.

Thank You, Lord, for the daughters You gave me. Their lives are a gift, a testimony of Your creativity, an evidence of Your strength and beauty. Each of them has changed my life and enriched my world. They have taught me how to love unselfishly, how to give and receive, how to teach and mentor. They have spurred me on to become a nobler and more virtuous woman.

Thank You, Lord, for my son. How I rejoice over this handsome boy, this little man whom You placed in my arms, in my heart, and into our family. May our cozy, joy-filled home always be his source of inspiration. May its borders always be a refuge for his young soul. May each of my children discover You, their heavenly Father. May they hear You calling their name. May they serve You at an early age.

Thank You, Lord, for our home. I am grateful to have a home to tend, to furnish, to keep and beautify and adorn. Help me be a woman of grace, a woman of compassion, and a woman of skill and artistry as I work in my dwelling place. Strengthen my spirit, my heart, and my hands as I endeavor to meet the needs of my loved ones.

Thank You, Lord, for calling me to be a woman of excellence. I will diligently develop the talents You gave me so I can bless my husband, my family and friends, and gladly serve in Your house. I will open my home and my heart to welcome Your people as well as those who don't know You. I will use all that I have—my time, my talents, and my treasures—so I can uniquely touch and encourage those whom You bring into my life.

Thank You, Lord, most of all, for loving me. Thank you for calling me Your daughter. Thank You for being my Father. My life was empty and meaningless till You filled it with Your love and joy. Now my life has a purpose. Help me be a virtuous wife, mother, and woman each and every day. Amen.

Jennifer Anne Messing writes from Portland, Oregon. www.JenniferAnneMessing.com