Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate all those who embody the nurturing spirit of motherhood, whether through biological ties or through the loving guidance they offer as spiritual mothers. Within our church families, we are often blessed by women who, like the Proverbs 31-woman, exhibit strength, wisdom, and a deep devotion to God, impacting countless lives with their care and encouragement. This Mother’s Day, we are honoured to feature a heartfelt contribution from our very own Veronica Lai. In her reflection about her mother, Veronica shares her deep love and appreciation for her mother, Emily, highlighting the beautiful way they honour both their family bond and their shared commitment to serving God within our church community. Her words offer a personal and inspiring perspective on what it means to truly honour a mother, grounded in faith and expressed through loving action.
Mother’s Day is always a cherished occasion, a moment to pause and express our gratitude for the women who have gifted us with life, offered unwavering care and nurturing, and surrounded us with steadfast love and dedication. The timeless wisdom of the Bible instructs us to “Honour your father and mother” (Exodus 20:12).
For me, in its essence, this means being grateful, showing filial piety, being obedient, and providing for my parents. It is within this understanding that I find it a double blessing and a profound privilege to honour my mum, Emily, while simultaneously serving God alongside her in the Wesley Floral Fellowship (WFF).
For over three decades, my mum Emily has been a faithful pillar in the WFF, cultivating deep friendships and strong bonds within our church family. With her distinctive crown of snowy white hair and elegant cheongsams gracing our Sundays, she is affectionately known as “Auntie Emily” to so many at Wesley. The simple, yet powerful and unwavering faithfulness of both my dad and mum to serve and honour God across these many years stands as a tangible personal testimony and a constant source of inspiration for me – a light that has shone brightly before my own path. Through their example, I’ve come to understand that while we can teach our children scripture and guide them through Sunday school and church, nothing resonates more deeply than a parent demonstrating the living word through their actions. God cherishes a willing heart to serve, and in His perfect timing, He blesses us abundantly in ways we cannot even imagine.
It was only last year, as my demanding work schedule eased, that I finally found the opportunity to serve alongside her. Now, as mum journeys through her senior years, nearing her ninth decade, the trip to church, the hours spent standing to create floral arrangements, and the return journey home take a significant toll. It is with immense gratitude that I am now able to drive her and collaboratively craft beautiful arrangements for His glory!
Beyond acquiring a delightful new skill, our rostered Friday mornings in the serene tranquillity of the sanctuary have quickly become precious quality time for us – a space to quiet our hearts and allow Him to guide our hands as we arrange His beautiful creations to adorn His temple. “The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land” (Song of Solomon 2:12) beautifully echoes the joy we share, a quiet song in our hearts as mother and daughter, when we complete an arrangement together with pride and happiness. Our lunch date after WFF concludes our lovely, shared adventure.
As time gently progresses, mum is slowly contemplating stepping down from this ministry that holds a special place in her heart. My hope is that her legacy will continue to flourish as I learn the skills from her and her gracious WFF veteran friends, who are always so willing to guide this newcomer. Indeed, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever” (Isaiah 40:8), and so too will the precious expertise and values be passed down from one generation to the next.
To my mum Emily, my constant source of encouragement, my ever-present safe haven, and a pillar of quiet strength, I want to express my deepest gratitude and love. Thank you, mummy – from the very depths of my heart!
And to all the wonderful and loving mothers, I extend my warmest wishes for a blessed and happy Mother’s Day.
Photos courtesy of Veronica Lai
Find out more about Emily Lai here:
Article: Blooming and Blossoming in Community – Our Stories His Glory 2
Video: Watch Emily Lai share her insights here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEZvfwBgzuQ
Read also: Mothers as Instruments of God
