Jones Onigbinde

Jones Onigbinde – Great Mother Heart …

Summer is upon us and the world is still in a state of chaos from the global pandemic. Family vacations are being canceled or changed to close-to-home activities. We are still trying to adjust to social distancing and attending church and other events virtually rather than in person. Now, more than ever, is a time for empathy, for faith, to respect each other and help one another. Personally I try to follow the example my mother set, to make her proud, to keep her legacy alive in the best way possible, with love and sacrifice and faith.

As the days grow longer and the sun seems to grow hotter, spring is slowly fading into summer. And for me, summer brings to mind my mother toiling long days in extreme temperatures to support her family. I look at what we’re going through today and I know we will survive, we will persevere through all of this, we will emerge on the other side with our faith stronger, knowing that, like my mother, we will do what needs to be done because we must.

On page 40 of my book, Great Mother Heart, I write:

“She always used to welcome me with that beautiful smile over her face and a gentle pat that only a motherly instinct blessed with God Almighty can usually give, even after painful moments. Not only was this about my mother, I believe it is something universal in every mom … something heavenly …

I can still feel that strong pat over my shoulders whenever sitting alone at home. Those lovely hands turning into wrinkles after harsh struggles, moistened yet dazzling eyes, always cheering me up, and agonized yet serene facial expressions that were loud enough to speak out about the silent chapters of her life. Her expressions covered her anxiety and displayed deep calmness and composure. I can still feel her presence everywhere, even now. Cool breezes on a hot day remind me of her flawless fragrance and motherly touch.”

So this summer, if you feel your temper rising or frustration taking you over – stop for a moment, take a deep breath, concentrate on something calming and positive, step back and feel that gentle cool breeze blowing over you and let it touch your heart. When life’s struggles become harder, the only place of refuge is in the warm embrace of our heavenly father who cared so much to send Jesus Christ as the only propitiation for our woes and sins. Look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12: 2). When you open your heart to the Lord, he brings calm where there is storm, he brings order into chaos, and more importantly he brings peace to a weary heart. Enjoy this summer, with the Lord on your side all will be well.