If only we could see ourselves the way others see us.

Somehow my hubby has this uncanny ability to breeze over my cellulite, spider veins, stretch marks, and leftover pregnancy dough, and see an exquisite creation he still lovingly calls his bride. Whereas when I look in the mirror, all I see is everything that’s changed with time and motherhood.

My husband demonstrated this crazy kind of love firsthand several years ago…

It was Mother’s Day, and I had awoken in happy anticipation of my usual mom’s day gift—hanging flower baskets for our front porch. But much to my dismay and rather blatant disappointment, there were no floral creations hanging outside my kitchen window. That’s ok, I soothed myself. I’m sure the baskets are just hidden in the garage somewhere. But an hour passed, and though it was time to leave for church, no flowers made their appearance.

I quietly climbed into the passenger seat of our SUV, puzzled by the glaring lack of a gift. Maybe he ran out of time to buy flowers. Or maybe he had simply forgotten. Maybe he didn’t think I was worthy of a gift. Or maybe …. maybe he didn’t think I was doing a good job as a mother! I nearly choked on that thought. That had to be it. He was trying to make a statement!!! (See what tiredness and irrational thoughts can do to a weary mama mind?!)

Thankfully, before my imagination got too far away from me, my husband handed me a large flat leather box. I looked over at him sitting confidently in the driver’s seat. He was grinning from ear to ear. Then I looked back. The kids were nearly bursting in the back seat, begging me to open my gift. I took a deep breath and opened the clasp.

Inside were several satiny folds of cloth, silky to the touch. I carefully moved them aside. Underneath (huge lump in my throat now), was the most extraordinary, gorgeous pearl necklace I’d ever seen! Now I had never owned pearls of any kind, and honestly hadn’t thought much about them except they were something classy, like Jackie O or Audrey Hepburn would wear. Something for the rich and famous. Definitely not something for little ol’ me. Based on the worth I’d assigned myself, I was in the costume jewelry class. More of an el cheapo cubic zirconium kind of gal. Clearly, my value in my husband’s eyes was far greater than the value I had placed on myself.

As I touched the necklace, tears began to fall. Not just slow sentimental drops of joy. We’re talking borderline ugly cry, the kind that doesn’t stop easily. This was definitely not the squeal of delight my family was expecting.

For whatever reason, I did not consider myself, or my performance as a mom, worthy of pearls. But my husband did. And his desire was that every time I wore those classic, simple, elegant pearls, they would say to the world that I was (and am) worth every penny.

Just imagine… If those around us view us with such worth, how much more must God look at us through eyes of love and complete adoration?

My prayer for you this Mother’s Day (and beyond) is that you will realize to the very depths of your being that you are loved. Not just for what you do. But for who you already are—a holy, chosen, beloved daughter of the King.

With or without pearls, you are precious.

So happy Mother’s Day, dear ones. Whether you receive flowers, jewelry, or nothing at all, we hope you know you are loved. By God, by your people, and by us here at The Masterpiece Mom.

We’re cheering for you, sweet mama!!! xoxo

“…She is far more precious than jewels.” – Proverbs 31:10

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For more hope and encouragement, check out our brand new book, SHINY THINGS: Mothering on Purpose in a World of Distractions. Treat yourself this Mother’s Day, or buy a copy as a gift for another amazing mama, or both. We think it’ll be the perfect hug for all the incredible moms in your life, yourself included.