We want to honor mothers… We want to honor mothers….we’re also honoring God, who created for us that special creation – woman – and who placed into woman such wonderful qualities!

Not to satisfy our own selfish ambitions Why have a family? Not to satisfy our own selfish ambitions

Mark 10:13-16: "People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. {14} When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. {15} I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." {16} And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them."

Why have children? Because God has planted in me the intense need to love and care for someone else.

Having children gives Mom and Dad a complete understanding of just how much God loves us! Psalms 103:13: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;"

Children teach us how to treat another young Christian

1 Thessalonians 2:7-8: "…but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. {8} We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."   1 Thessalonians 2:11-12: "For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, {12} encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory."

Fathers learn so much as we watch our wives care for the children. By experiencing the love their parents give them, our children learn how to love.

Basic ingredients for building positive relationships Mutual respect Taking time for fun Encouragement Communicating love

A perspective from a two-year old

Psalms 127: "Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.

{2} In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat-- for he grants sleep to those he loves. {3} Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. {4} Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. {5} Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate."