A Tribute to My Mother


by Heather Kurtz



The last significant thing my mother said to me--not long before she made the final turn through the Valley of the Shadow with her Shepherd--was, “Don’t be afraid to cry. Tears are healing.” So I told my own daughters we must follow Nana’s orders.



My mother’s life was defined by this love and care for others, closely patterned after her Great Shepherd’s own heart. Everyone gathered here was no doubt the recipient of her prayers at some point, or had their own prayers joined by hers in a mutual petition. As one put it, “The first time I met her, I felt as if I’d known her for years.” She was that kind of interested and intentional person. While she understood the inevitability of our grief, she had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh, and would want to see us smile even today.



So I turn my thoughts to how she made everything she touched beautiful. From her flowers in the yard, to her charming handwriting on a note. A cheerful wreath by the door, and a carefully selected gift, beautifully adorned to reflect her love of Christmas. She made holidays warm, meals comforting, and home a haven. School friends were always made to feel at home, some even commenting on how tremendously pretty she was. Naturally I couldn’t agree more and was glad to recruit others to my cause. More importantly, she soothed broken hearts, spoke courage to fearful ones, and pointed always to a heavenly Father who would perfectly fulfill all His promises to His children.



All our lives have been made more beautiful by her touch. And if it’s possible for heaven to be beautified in any way, it truly gained an adornment on Sunday. Nathan, Jason, and I praise God for the gift of our mother. We thank Him for his perfect care of her, until we can celebrate together again in His presence.