Symbol of Love

The official flower of Mother's Day is the carnation, the favorite flower of the mom of the holiday's founder, Anna Jarvis. Over time, the custom arose of wearing a white carnation on Mother's Day if your mother has died and a red one if she's living.

In fact, many carnation colors have special meanings. Pink carries the richest Christian symbolism. According to legend, carnations first appeared on earth as Mary wept while watching Jesus carry his cross. Where her tears fell, there appeared pink carnations, symbolizing a mother’s undying love.

According to one theory, the English word for carnation comes from carnis, Latin for flesh. From the same root comes incarnation, God’s coming to earth in flesh. Thus, carnations remind us of loving mothers as well as our loving Savior.

Mother’s Day is a time to remember, rejoice, and celebrate.  For some, though, this day may bring sorrow or regret for   various reasons.  As Romans 12:15 tells us, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.”   Be sensitive and caring to others. Rejoice and give thanks for the sweet blessings God has given you.

This Mother’s Day we pray for joy in all mother-child relationships and for comfort for those who are sad.