Motherhood is a Blessing from God

We all recognize the role of mothers and Mother's Day, and certainly, we would not be here without them! But, each one of us has a different story and experience when we think of our mothers. To some, Mother's Day is a challenging day, which may bring difficult memories and heartaches, but, to others, it is a day filled with joyful smiles and laughter. Some of us may have come from broken homes, lost a mother, or perhaps have lost a child or spouse as a mother. Others may not be showing our mothers the respect that we ought to be showing, or we could be neglecting the love that comes from our mothers. Someone may also find themselves in a circumstance where it is challenging to love. Life's journey brings various challenges and joys, both in mothering and being mothered. But one thing is sure: God created and tasked mothers to reflect God's love and grace.

Visibly, in Scripture, the Lord thinks highly of a mother, and it was his original intention and masterpiece. Knowing this, we, as Christians, should be compelled to go above and beyond for our mothers. But the fact is, some of us may feel this statement is often easier said than done. No matter the circumstance we find ourselves in, we are assured that the grace and love of Jesus outweigh any heartache, shattered memory, or struggle we may have. We should act according to the Lord's specific calling in that situation. That action may be complex, whether confession, forgiveness, or restoration. Still, Christ calls us to be mending our relationships constantly and base our horizontal relationships on our genuine vertical relationship with him.

If, however, you find yourself in a great situation with a peaceful, loving, and generous mother, give God thanks and praise. Cling closely to that truth, and know that mothers are to be treasured and cared for because they have taken care of us as children.

I like to remember a couple biblical ways my mother reflected God's love for me:

1. She cared and loved me even before I knew it or could respond. Knit together in her womb, she fed, carried, and provided for me. Even after I was born, I was unaware and yet, like God, she watched over me. It is wonderful to think that while our mothers did this for us, God does this too. Before we even existed, God created this world and planned for our existence. Even before we believed in God, God loved us.
2. She passed on her wisdom. God provides parents to children to help pass on wisdom to the younger generation. The parents don't always need to use words - modelling is the primary means. For mothers, there is a special calling. Mothers are especially equipped to teach children how to honour and love the husband/father. The first chapter of Proverbs portrays wisdom as a woman who calls people to learn and find life. Commentators have noted how Jesus' actions often reflected the call of the woman in Proverbs. He preached and taught with the purpose of giving wisdom and finding salvation in Christ.

Spread the love of Christ through this reflection of Mother's Day, and know that it goes much deeper than just historical tradition; it honours and glorifies the Lord, Jesus Christ.

Moms, we thank you, knowing that you are rock stars of the family! Our prayer at SDBC is that you have received the love of Christ in a fresh way and the gratitude of others has been showered over you!

As James tells us, "Every good gift and every perfect gift comes from our Father above." And so, when we give thanks for moms, we express thanks first and foremost to God himself. Motherhood was his idea. It's a blessing from God.