A Mother’s Love Nurtures for the Long Haul

Cindie reminded me this morning that it has been eleven years since the 2015 death of my mom, Shirley May Winquist. There are still family and friends who remember mom. I certainly remember her for many things, but two that stand out are joy and caring for those who needed care. When I arrived in 1951 I could do nothing on my own. However, mom nurtured me regardless of my response to her nurturing efforts. She was in it for the long haul.

Mom did not want a funeral or memorial service characterized by darkness or unhealthy grief. Grief is a good thing, but it must be balanced grief. Note the word choice in her obituary. It was her choice of the word she wanted to characterize her life and her final service: Joy. Even in death she wanted that to be a key component of her legacy.

Shirley Winquist Obituary: March 28, 1929 –  February 27, 2015

Winquist, Shirley May (Nee Kramer ) of Waukesha, formerly of New Berlin. Absent from the body, present with the Lord. Friday, February 27, 2015. Age 85 years. Wife of the late Clyde W., mother of Wayne (Cindie), Russell, Claude (Chris), and Sharon (Tom) Clements. Further survived by grandchildren, great grandchildren, other relatives and friends. Graveside Services for family. Joy Service Tuesday, March 10 at 2 PM at Elmbrook Church 777 S. Barker Rd. Brookfield. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Milwaukee Rescue Mission, Gideons International or Elmbrook Church.

Seven Ways Mom Nurtured Her Children and Grandchildren

Mom and Wayne, May 2009

Nurturing children is one of the primary responsibilities of a parent and grandparent. The Bible teaches many different things about raising children in a way that encourage growth and development. This is not something done just by coasting and hoping for the best. It is unwise to delegate or entrust these responsibilities to the hands of others. It is helpful to have others come alongside in the nurturing process, but the parent must be the primary master gardener in nurturing young lives. Mom realized and performed her nurturing role with joy.

  1. Teach the Word of God: Emphasize the importance of Scripture through regular reading and discussion. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 encourages parents to impress God’s words on their children constantly. The scriptures provide light and wisdom. They reveal sin and teach the only way of salvation.
  2. Model Christlike Behavior: Children learn from the actions of their parents. Showing love, kindness, and integrity helps shape their character. Ephesians 5:1-2 calls believers to be imitators of God, encouraging parents to live by example. Nurturing must show living life like Jesus.
  3. Provide Discipline with Love: Discipline is necessary for teaching right from wrong and helping children grow. It should be done with love and guidance. Proverbs 13:24 states that those who love their children will discipline them, highlighting the balance of love and correction. Mom was not harsh, but her rules were not to be ignored. Discipline is a key part of nurturing the next generation.
  4. Encourage Prayer and Worship: Teach children the value of prayer and worship as part of their daily lives. Philippians 4:6 advises making requests known to God, fostering a personal relationship with Him. All I can say is that mom prayed constantly and consistently for her children and her grandchildren.
  5. Foster a Spirit of Gratitude: Instill a sense of gratitude and thankfulness for God’s blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 emphasizes giving thanks in all circumstances, modeling an attitude of gratitude. Mom gave thanks when things were good and even when things were difficult. That natured a thankful heart for those who observed her life.
  6. Create a Safe and Loving Environment: Ensure that the home is a place of safety, support, and love, where children feel valued. Colossians 3:21 warns against provoking children to discouragement, encouraging nurturing instead.
  7. Encourage Community and Relationships: Foster connections with peers and mentors in a faith community that can provide support and guidance. Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of gathering together with other believers.

How to Identify a Follower of Jesus

Mom set a good example of how a parent should nurture their children. It is something for me to imitate. Ponder the following instructions from the Apostle John: “Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.” 3 John 11

Five Minute Friday

This post is part of the weekly Five-Minute Friday link-up.

All scripture passages are from the English Standard Version except as otherwise noted.