Evelyn Marti Steward (1916-2003)
A wife of good character, can anyone find? She is worth more than rubies. She’s gentle and kind. Her husband has trust in her. She meets all his needs. All her life, she brings him favor and kind deeds. She can select wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships; brings food from far lands. She gets up while it’s still dark to provide good food For family and servants. She’s never gruff or rude. She will consider a field and then will buy it. She will plant a good vineyard; all will benefit. She sets about her hard work with vigor and might. Her arms are strong for each task. Work is her delight. Everything she makes is good. Each profit is won. Her lamp keeps burning at night; her work is never done. She uses a spinning wheel and holds the spindle. She makes her own wool and flax, gets wood for kindle. She reaches out to the poor and to the needy. Her hands always extend out; she’s never greedy. When it snows, she has no fear for those in her care For all of them are clothed in scarlet that’s so rare. She makes covers for her beds and makes for herself Clothes in fine purple linen, filling up each shelf. Her husband is respected at the city gate. He sits there, among the elders, to advocate. She makes fine linen garments; they’re ready to sell. She supplies merchant sashes; she does very well. She is clothed with a calm strength and with dignity. She can laugh at days to come, smiling visibly. She speaks with lots of wisdom, instruction that’s true. Faithfulness is on her tongue. Knowledge she’ll pursue. She watches over the affairs of all her household She doesn’t eat the bread of idleness, we’re told. Her children rise up to call her blessed and adored. Her husband praises her. All their love is outpoured. Many women will work hard and do noble deeds But you surpass all of them. Your faithfulness leads. Charm is very deceptive. Beauty doesn’t last. But a woman who fears the Lord has praises so vast. Give her the rewards she’s earned. Let her works bring praise. Exclaim at the city gate, “Honor her all her days.” Proverbs 31:10-31
Mother’s Day brings memories of our mothers, grandmothers, and other women in our lives that have influenced us. We honor all mothers this Sunday whether they live next door, across the country ,or in heaven.
Let this Mother’s Day be filled with memories of love, joy, and hope.
