The Heart Behind the Gift: A Mother’s Day Reflection
The Heart Behind the Gift: A Mother’s Day Reflection
Published by LEV Church
Mother’s Day is a beautiful time to honor the women who have poured so much into our lives—our mothers, grandmothers, spiritual moms, and mentors. It’s a day to say thank you for their love, strength, sacrifice, and faithfulness. While the ways we celebrate may change over time, one thing has always stayed the same: it’s not about the gift—it’s about the heart behind it.
A LOOK BACK: GIFTS THROUGH THE AGES
Mother’s Day as we know it was made official in the U.S. in 1914, but the tradition of honoring mothers dates back much further. In ancient Greece, spring festivals were held to honor Rhea, the mother of the gods. In the 1600s, England celebrated "Mothering Sunday," where children would return home from work to spend time with their mothers and often bring small tokens like flowers or cakes.
In more recent history, the most popular gifts have ranged from handmade cards and fresh bouquets to personalized keepsakes and heartfelt letters. The shift in gift trends over time reflects not just changing culture, but evolving ways of expressing love. And yet, the most powerful gifts remain the ones that come from a sincere heart.
IT’S NOT ABOUT THE PRICE TAG
Scripture reminds us that what matters most isn’t what we give, but how we give.
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
—2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV)
This Mother’s Day, whether it’s a store-bought present, a handwritten note, a bouquet of wildflowers, or simply quality time, what will make the gift meaningful is the intention behind it. Gifts rooted in love, gratitude, and thoughtfulness are the ones that are remembered—because they reflect the heart of the giver.
A SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVE ON GIVING
In the Kingdom of God, giving is never just about the object—it’s always about relationship. Jesus praised the widow who gave two small coins because it came from her heart (Mark 12:41–44). Similarly, our gifts to our mothers don’t need to be extravagant to be impactful. A sincere “thank you,” a prayer spoken over her, or even acts of service can express love in a deeply spiritual and meaningful way.
THIS YEAR, GIVE FROM THE HEART
As we celebrate the mothers and mother figures in our lives this year, let’s not focus on finding the perfect gift—let’s focus on giving a purposeful one.
Ask yourself:
What would bless her spirit?
How can I show that I see her, know her, and value her?
What can I do or say that would make her feel loved and honored?
When we give with intention and from the heart, we reflect the love of Christ—the ultimate giver.
From all of us at LEV Church, Happy Mother’s Day. May it be filled with joy, reflection, and love that flows straight from the heart.