Embracing Love and Community on Mother's Day
Summary
On this beautiful Mother’s Day, we gather in gratitude for the many ways God’s love is made known among us—through mothers, through community, and through the living presence of Christ, our Good Shepherd. We are reminded that while Mother’s Day is not a church holiday, it is a day filled with both joy and complexity. For some, it is a time of celebration and connection; for others, it brings sorrow, longing, or memories of loss. We hold space for all these experiences, naming both the joys and the tears, and recognizing the sacredness of every story.
Our readings today center on the image of the shepherd and the call to love. Psalm 23 assures us of God’s constant care, leading us through green pastures and dark valleys alike. In John’s Gospel, Jesus declares that his sheep know his voice, and that no one can snatch them from his hand. This is a promise of belonging and security, rooted in the unity of Jesus with the Father. We are invited to trust in this love, even when life feels uncertain or fragmented.
Reflecting on the origins of Mother’s Day, we remember Julia Ward Howe’s vision—a call for women to gather in the cause of peace and compassion, to resist violence, and to nurture the world with mercy. This vision echoes the heart of the Gospel: love that gives, serves, and heals. Jesus models this love not by seeking to be served, but by serving others—especially those on the margins. He calls us to do the same, to love one another as he has loved us.
The story of Tabitha (Dorcas) in Acts offers a powerful example of this love in action. Tabitha is the only woman in Acts explicitly called a disciple, and her ministry of compassion so deeply touched her community that they could not bear to lose her. The faith of the widows who called for Peter, and the quiet power of Peter’s prayer, remind us that God’s Spirit works through community, through acts of mercy, and through hope that dares to believe in new life—even when all seems lost.
We are challenged to consider: Are we continuing the work of Jesus today? Are our lives marked by the same generosity, boundary-breaking love, and willingness to be present with those in need? The early church was not afraid to wade into each other’s lives, to risk vulnerability, and to trust in the mystery of God’s grace. May we, too, live with an “optimism of grace,” trusting that God is at work through us to bring healing, hope, and resurrection to a world in need.
Key Takeaways
- The love of God as Shepherd is both comforting and challenging. God’s care is not just a gentle presence in green pastures, but a guiding force through the darkest valleys. Trusting this love means allowing ourselves to be led, even when the path is uncertain, and believing that God’s goodness and mercy will pursue us all our days. [15:16]
- Jesus’ model of love is radically self-giving. He did not seek to be served, but to serve, reaching out to those who were marginalized, rejected, or overlooked. True discipleship is measured not by status or power, but by our willingness to give ourselves for others, to love without calculation, and to see every person as worthy of compassion. [24:33]
- The story of Tabitha reveals the power of quiet, persistent service. Though often overlooked, acts of mercy and care can transform communities and leave a legacy that endures beyond our lifetimes. Tabitha’s life reminds us that every act of kindness matters, and that God honors those who serve faithfully, regardless of recognition or title. [34:10]
- Community is essential to the work of resurrection and healing. The widows who mourned Tabitha did not grieve alone; they acted together, bringing their need before God and one another. Healing often comes through the faith, prayers, and presence of others, and we are called to be a people who bear one another’s burdens and hope together for new life. [35:47]
- Living with an “optimism of grace” means trusting in God’s power to restore what seems lost. The early church believed that God could bring life out of death, hope out of despair, and unity out of division. We are invited to participate in this ongoing work, to be agents of healing and reconciliation, and to trust that even small acts of faithfulness can turn the world upside down. [39:41]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:36] - Call to Worship and Opening Prayer
[01:26] - Mother’s Day and Good Shepherd Sunday Introduction
[05:37] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[07:03] - Special Music: Psalm 23
[11:59] - Children’s Video: The Story of Tabitha
[15:16] - Psalm 23 Responsive Reading
[16:10] - Gospel Reading: John 10:22-30
[18:05] - The Origins and Vision of Mother’s Day
[21:27] - The Complexities of Mother’s Day
[23:05] - The Commandment to Love as Jesus Loved
[27:30] - The Early Church: Acts, Peter, and Tabitha
[32:17] - Tabitha: The Only Female Disciple in Acts
[35:47] - The Power of Community and Faith in Action
[38:04] - Resurrection, Hope, and the Work of the Spirit
[42:36] - Preaching the Gospel Through Actions
[44:29] - Prayers for Healing and Community
[52:51] - Offering, Thanksgiving, and Benediction
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
---
### Bible Reading
- Psalm 23
"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want..." (entire psalm)
- John 10:22-30
"My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me..."
- Acts 9:36-43
The story of Tabitha (Dorcas), the disciple known for her good works and acts of charity, whom Peter raises from the dead.
---
### Observation Questions
1. In Psalm 23, what are some of the ways God is described as caring for us? What images stand out to you?
(see [15:16])
2. According to John 10:27-29, what does Jesus say about his relationship with his sheep? What promises does he make?
(see [16:10])
3. In the story of Tabitha in Acts 9, what do we learn about her life and the impact she had on her community?
(see [34:10])
4. The sermon mentions that Tabitha is the only woman in Acts called a disciple. Why do you think this detail is important?
(see [34:10])
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon talks about the “comforting and challenging” nature of God’s love as a shepherd. In what ways can God’s guidance be both comforting and challenging at the same time?
(see [15:16])
2. Jesus says his sheep know his voice and follow him. What might it look like in daily life to “know” and “follow” Jesus’ voice?
(see [16:10])
3. The widows in Acts 9 acted together to seek help for Tabitha. What does this say about the role of community in experiencing God’s healing and hope?
(see [35:47])
4. The sermon describes Tabitha’s acts of service as “quiet, persistent.” Why do you think small acts of kindness can have such a big impact in a community?
(see [34:10])
---
### Application Questions
1. The sermon acknowledges that Mother’s Day can be both joyful and painful. How can we as a group or church “hold space” for both celebration and sorrow in our community? Is there someone you know who might need extra support this week?
(see [22:14])
2. Psalm 23 talks about God leading us through green pastures and dark valleys. Is there a “valley” you are walking through right now? What would it look like to trust God’s guidance in this season?
(see [15:16])
3. Jesus’ love is described as radically self-giving, especially toward those on the margins. Who in your life or neighborhood might be feeling overlooked or left out? What is one practical way you could reach out to them this week?
(see [24:33])
4. Tabitha’s story shows the power of quiet service. Think of a time when someone’s small act of kindness made a difference for you. How might you “pay it forward” in your own way?
(see [34:10])
5. The early church was willing to “wade into each other’s lives” and risk vulnerability. Are there barriers that keep you from being open or asking for help? What would help you take a step toward deeper community?
(see [35:47])
6. The sermon invites us to live with an “optimism of grace,” trusting that God can bring new life even when things seem lost. Is there a situation in your life or in the world where you need to hold onto hope? How can you practice this “optimism of grace” this week?
(see [39:41])
7. Julia Ward Howe’s original vision for Mother’s Day was about peace and compassion. How can you be a peacemaker or show compassion in your family, workplace, or neighborhood this month?
(see [18:05])
---
Devotional
Day 1: The Lord is Our Shepherd and Guide
In every season of life, God shepherds us with loving care, leading us to places of rest and restoration, even when we walk through the darkest valleys. The assurance of God’s presence brings comfort and courage, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles or joys. God’s guidance is gentle yet steadfast, providing for our needs, restoring our souls, and preparing blessings even in the presence of adversity. As we dwell in God’s house, goodness and mercy follow us, inviting us to trust in the Shepherd’s unfailing love and provision each day. [15:16]
Psalm 23 (ESV):
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Reflection: Where in your life do you most need to trust God’s shepherding care today, and how can you intentionally rest in His presence?
Day 2: Hearing and Following the Voice of Jesus
Jesus calls each of us by name, inviting us to listen for his voice and follow him with trust and devotion. He promises eternal life and security, assuring us that nothing can snatch us from his hand or the Father’s hand. In a world full of competing voices and distractions, Jesus’ words remind us that we belong to him, and that our relationship with him is marked by intimacy, knowledge, and faithful following. The unity of Jesus with the Father is the foundation of our hope, and his voice leads us into abundant life. [16:53]
John 10:27-30 (ESV):
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand.
I and the Father are one.
Reflection: What practical step can you take today to quiet your heart and listen for Jesus’ voice guiding you?
Day 3: Love One Another as Jesus Has Loved Us
The commandment to love one another as Jesus has loved us is at the heart of Christian discipleship. Jesus’ love was self-giving, inclusive, and sacrificial—he served others, welcomed the outcast, and gave his life for all. We are called to embody this love in our relationships, not seeking what we can gain, but looking for ways to give, serve, and uplift others. As we practice this love, we participate in the ongoing work of Christ in the world, empowered by the Spirit and supported by the community of faith. [24:33]
John 13:34-35 (ESV):
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
Reflection: Who is someone you can show Christ-like love to today, especially if it means stepping outside your comfort zone?
Day 4: The Power of Community and Faith in Action
The early church was marked by a community that cared deeply for one another, as seen in the story of Tabitha and the widows who mourned her. Their faith moved them to action, bringing their needs before God and one another, and creating space for miracles and transformation. The story reminds us that healing and restoration often come through the collective faith, prayers, and support of a loving community. We are invited to be people who wade into each other’s lives, offering presence, compassion, and hope, trusting that God works through us to bring new life. [38:04]
Acts 9:36-41 (ESV):
Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity.
In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room.
Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.”
So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them.
But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up.
And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive.
Reflection: How can you be part of a community that brings hope and healing to someone in need this week?
Day 5: Witnessing Through Actions and the Optimism of Grace
Our lives are a testimony to the gospel when our actions reflect mercy, compassion, and generosity. The early Christians were recognized not just by their words, but by the way they lived—turning the world upside down with acts of love and service. Even when we feel pressed down by life’s troubles, we are invited to begin again, trusting in the optimism of grace and the power of resurrection. Each day is an opportunity to make a difference, to share our stories, and to let the radiance of our faith shine in the world, knowing that we never walk alone. [42:36]
Matthew 5:16 (ESV):
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Reflection: What is one concrete act of kindness or service you can do today that will let your faith shine in your community?
Quotes
Like Paul getting back up on his feet on the road to Damascus and starting an entirely new life of ministry, like Dorcas Tabitha rising again to her ministries of compassion and generosity, we are invited to begin again and again and again and again to taste the sweetness of new life lived in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit. [00:44:02] (27 seconds)
Preach the gospel and when necessary use words. So we consider the power of witness, especially when witness is in our actions rather than our words. We can talk and talk and talk. We can all talk a good game, but it is actually our acts of mercy. It is how we live our life that will say what really needs to be said. [00:42:57] (26 seconds)
In some ways, the story gives us reason to hope, even when we think there's no possibility of any restoration of whatever it is that is dead. We often decide that we live in this world where we're convinced it's sort of like Humpty Dumpty and things can never be put back together again. But the book of Acts tells a whole different story about people empowered to turn the world upside down. [00:39:29] (26 seconds)
And God is at work, often through us to be putting it right again, using us to be making a difference, even if it's one small thing at a time. Doing that might indeed turn the world upside down from where it is now. [00:40:04] (17 seconds)
The widows provide excellent role models for that ministry, despite the messages that bombard us from selfish culture all around us, telling us to take care of ourselves and be private in our pain. The story gives a wonderful experiential description of early Christians that makes us want to be church in the same way. They were unafraid to wade into each other's lives in transforming ways. [00:41:22] (26 seconds)
When we hear the witness of others, the stories of others, we can each of us learn to be strengthened and sometimes even rise up when life has pressed us down and trouble has us pressed into ourselves. [00:43:48]
Most of us are not quite able to give ourselves to the people of this world in the same way that Jesus gave himself. But we can try. We can practice. And the more we practice, the more we learn to love by concentrating on giving rather than getting. The more at peace we are with ourselves. [00:26:10] (20 seconds)
Peter empties the room of all the mourners, and he approaches the bedside of Dorcas. He kneels and he prays. And you can almost hear the quiet when you read this, because Luke doesn't put words in Peter's mouth. We don't read about some long -winded prayer or persuasive pleading to God on behalf of Tabitha. He kneels and prays. And then he uses the simplest of words. When he speaks directly, he says, Tabitha, get up. [00:37:27] (38 seconds)
The Spirit of God precedes us in our work of loving. The Spirit is already at work. God's Spirit is all around us. In nature, in the sun, in our friends. And that's with me. Because we have work to do. And we need the Spirit to be ready to do it. [00:26:46] (17 seconds)
They lived and moved out of an optimism of grace. I like that, optimism of grace. [00:40:39]
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