DAY 17

John 19:25–27

“25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.

26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.”

Today’s “Light the World” initiative may not have involved a major action like some of the other ones, but it was very rewarding. I am so grateful for my mother and all she has done for me. My love and appreciation for her has only grown as I have started my own family. She and my father have done so much for my children, and they have always been so kind to my wife. My mother is not without fault, but she is a truly kind person who I admire and strive to be like.

• I called my mom and just had a good chat with her. Making her laugh is something I have always loved to do, so it was fun to get her going a few times.
• Summer called her Aunt Mel, who has been like a mother to her for many years. They seriously talked for over an hour.
• We each took a turn talking to the other’s mother.
• Our girls Facetimed with their grandparents. I am very proud of my children, and I think one of the ways I can best honor my parents is to show them that they raised me to be a great parent as well.