Friday, May 9, 2025

A Prayer for the Weary Mom This Mother’s Day By Alicia Searl Bible Reading: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9 Read or Listen Below:

 

A Prayer for the Weary Mom This Mother’s Day - Your Daily Prayer - May 9

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A Prayer for the Weary Mom This Mother’s Day
By Alicia Searl

Bible Reading:
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9

Read or Listen Below:

This past weekend, we celebrated my daughter’s sixteenth birthday by heading to the beach with eight of her friends and enjoying a picturesque waterside picnic. As lovely as that sounds, and it was, it also came with a healthy dose of drama, stress, and a bittersweet reminder that my mom was missing out on yet another monumental event.

Unfortunately, my mom’s heavenly birthday collides with my middle daughter’s earthly birthday, making it a rather emotional day. Yet, over the past three years, while it has gotten a little easier with time and this day has morphed into something new, it still has a way of stirring up suppressed feelings, generally leading to thoughts that declare, "This doesn’t seem fair!”

Mother’s Day is no different…the wealth of emotions lingers, making springtime difficult to navigate, especially with sensitivity and grace. Even still, I often wonder what my mom would tell me if she were here today. Oh, how could I use her wisdom and solid advice right about now? The teen years are rough and have practically torn my heart in ways I never knew were possible. Many days, I feel like I am drifting along, barely hanging on, or failing altogether. It’s overwhelming to say the least, and I am just plain tired!

Then I am reminded of a verse my momma had hanging in her closet, “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for the proper time will reap a harvest if we do not give up!” In Galatians 6:9, Paul speaks to the church of Galatia and reminds them that doing good work isn’t easy but hard! Not only that, but when believers stray from their firm foundation and begin to question if what they are doing matters, they fail to understand the depths of God’s sacrificial love and the promise that guarantees them a place in eternity!

Sadly, as moms, we can fall into the trap of believing that if motherhood isn’t easy or instantly rewarding, we must be doing something wrong. This can be even more painful (or frustrating) if we strive to walk by faith and do our best to live by the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), only to feel like we are failing in a role we deeply long to be good at!

This is precisely where the enemy strikes as we begin to question our work, our worth, and our identity as moms. If this pattern continues, we grow weary, faint, and sometimes long to give up. But the truth is that when we fall for this misconception, we are merely relying on our own abilities, efforts, and emotions, and bending to lies, rather than placing our trust in our Father (Proverbs 3:5).

I don’t have to tell you that motherhood is hard work and very humbling! The time, energy, and efforts, not to mention the endless sacrifices that often go unnoticed and come with a hefty set of emotional baggage, can feel discouraging. But God doesn’t want our past to haunt us or our current situations to steal our joy. He wants us to set our eyes on the future that expands far beyond this life.

Sweet momma friend, I don’t know where you are on this motherhood journey. I have no idea how many little darlings you are trying to lead to Christ, the struggles you face, the support (or lack thereof) you receive. I don’t know if you have a momma who speaks into your life or is currently absent. I have no idea of the heaviness your heart holds, the burdens you carry, nor the emotions you toil with, but I do know this - you have a Father who sees the work you are weaving into your ministry as a mom. Day after day, He sees the sacrifices you make, the battles you face, the hard truths you wrestle with, and He invites you to lay it all at His feet and find peace, comfort, and rest.

This Mother’s Day, be gentle, kind, and patient with yourself. Speak truth and love over your weary heart and allow yourself to take a much-needed, well-deserved break from your motherhood duties by leaning into a God that provides healing rest. Then take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy that precious Father-daughter time.

Let’s Pray:

Father, You are so very good to us. We cannot even begin to fathom the wonders of Your love and how You meet us right where we are, showering us in Your perfect peace, calming comfort, and restorative rest. When we grow weary, we ask that You draw close and grant us the strength to continue doing good work through Your amazing power. This Mother’s Day, speak to the heart of your precious daughter who needs a sweet reminder that she is seen, valued, and deeply loved. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/PeopleImages

Alicia SearlAlicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy.  Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.

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Originally published Friday, 09 May 2025.



Judicial Watch Sues IRS Over Alleged Targeting of Jan. 6 Protesters;Judicial Watch has launched a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) demanding transparency regarding the alleged targeting of January 6 protesters.

 Judicial Watch Sues IRS Over Alleged Targeting of Jan. 6 Protesters

Judicial Watch has launched a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) demanding transparency regarding the alleged targeting of January 6 protesters. This legal battle represents the latest effort to investigate potential government overreach in the aftermath of the January 6 events. How has the IRS responded to this lawsuit?

Lawsuit Details and Background

Judicial Watch has officially filed a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service, seeking records related to potential targeting of January 6 protesters and their supporters. The legal action, filed on April 25, follows the IRS’s failure to respond to a Freedom of Information Act request submitted by the watchdog group on January 22.

The original FOIA request sought specific communications from high-ranking IRS officials, including former Commissioner Daniel Werfel, acting Commissioner Douglas O’Donnell, and Chief Tax Compliance Officer Heather Maloy. Judicial Watch is particularly interested in discussions about President Trump, his pardons of January 6 participants, and any plans for audits targeting the protesters, their supporters, or related nonprofit organizations.

Issues of Transparency and Accountability

This lawsuit represents part of Judicial Watch’s broader efforts to ensure government accountability and transparency in relation to the events of January 6. The watchdog organization has consistently advocated for public access to information about how federal agencies have responded to and investigated matters related to the Capitol protests.

The IRS has a controversial history regarding political targeting, with previous scandals involving alleged scrutiny of conservative nonprofit groups during the Obama administration. This new investigation aims to determine whether similar targeting practices may have been employed against individuals connected to the January 6 events.


Legal Implications and Next Steps

By pursuing legal action, Judicial Watch is leveraging judicial authority to compel the IRS to release records that could reveal whether the tax agency engaged in politically motivated enforcement actions. The lawsuit’s outcome could have significant implications for government transparency and the treatment of political protesters by federal agencies.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Judicial Watch itself has a stake in ensuring that tax authorities do not improperly target organizations based on political viewpoints. The case highlights ongoing tensions between government agencies and watchdog organizations over access to information about sensitive political matters.

Sources:

First American Pope Elected and Will Be Known as Pope Leo XIV By Beliefnet Contributors

 

Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com

In a historic and groundbreaking decision, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected the 267th pope, marking the first time an American has assumed the role. Prevost, originally from Chicago, will be known as Pope Leo XIV. He emerged as the new pontiff after white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel on the second day of the conclave, signaling that the cardinals had made their choice.

At age 69, Pope Leo XIV brings a wealth of global experience to the papacy. He spent much of his career as a missionary in South America, working for a decade in Trujillo, Peru, and later serving as bishop of Chiclayo from 2014 to 2023. His missionary mindset remains central to his vision for the Church. In a previous interview with Vatican News, he stated, “I still consider myself a missionary. My vocation, like that of every Christian, is to be a missionary, to proclaim the Gospel wherever one is.”

Pope Leo XIV’s journey to the papacy reflects his deep commitment to faith and service. Most recently, he led the Vatican office responsible for bishop appointments, a position of significant influence that aligns with his commitment to continuing the reform-minded approach of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

The conclave, which began after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, included 133 voting cardinals. Following tradition, the cardinals were sequestered within the Vatican, voting in secrecy until a consensus was reached. To become the next pope, a candidate needed two-thirds of the votes. The conclave concluded after just two days, similar to the 2013 conclave that elected Pope Francis.

Pope Leo XIV’s selection marks the beginning of a new chapter for the global Catholic community, which numbers approximately 1.4 billion believers. As the first American pope, his leadership is expected to build on the reforms initiated by Pope Francis, emphasizing pastoral care, inclusivity, and global outreach.

Though born and raised in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV has strong ties to South America. His extensive missionary work in Peru shaped his pastoral approach, and he holds dual citizenship as both an American and a Peruvian. This unique background allows him to bridge cultures and foster unity within the Church.

His election reflects the evolving dynamics within the Vatican, emphasizing a global perspective that aligns with the Church’s mission to reach diverse communities. His focus on missionary work and grassroots leadership makes him a natural choice to lead the Church into the future.

Pope Leo XIV is expected to address the faithful from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, greeting the world as the new leader of the Catholic Church. His papal name, Leo XIV, draws inspiration from a legacy of strong leadership, signifying a commitment to both tradition and progress.

The global Catholic community now looks to Pope Leo XIV with hope and anticipation, praying for his wisdom, guidance, and strength as he steps into his sacred role. As he embraces this new journey, his words remind believers of the core mission: “to proclaim the Gospel wherever one is.”

As Pope Leo XIV takes the helm, Catholics around the world remain united in prayer, eager to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Church and inspire believers worldwide.

Mark 5:21-43 And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him; and he was beside the sea.

 

Mark 5:21-43


And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him; and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Ja'irus by name; and seeing him, he fell at his feet, and besought him, saying, "My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live." And he went with him. And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him. And there was a woman who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and who had suffered much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. She had heard the reports about Jesus, and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment. For she said, "If I touch even his garments, I shall be made well." And immediately the hemorrhage ceased; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. And Jesus, perceiving in himself that power had gone forth from him, immediately turned about in the crowd, and said, "Who touched my garments?" And his disciples said to him, "You see the crowd pressing around you, and yet you say, 'Who touched me?'" And he looked around to see who had done it. But the woman, knowing what had been done to her, came in fear and trembling and fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease." While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, "Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?" But ignoring what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, "Do not fear, only believe." And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. When they came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, he saw a tumult, and people weeping and wailing loudly. And when he had entered, he said to them, "Why do you make a tumult and weep? The child is not dead but sleeping." And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside, and took the child's father and mother and those who were with him, and went in where the child was. Taking her by the hand he said to her, "Tal'itha cu'mi"; which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise." And immediately the girl got up and walked (she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.
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