Family

Mothers

by Mark Trodd
06/25/22
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Mothers are the most caring and self-sacrificing people on the planet, with very few exceptions. They give so much of themselves – carrying us for 9 months, giving birth to us, and then taking care of us throughout our lives.  Mothers share in our joys and sorrows in a way that no one else can, because we were once a part of them.  So much of what mothers do goes unnoticed and under-appreciated. Let your mum know you love and appreciate her regularly, not just on special days.  

In the Bible, God commands everyone to “Honour your father and your mother…” and promises a blessing to all those who obey.  To honour means to respect, care for, and show gratitude towards someone.  God gave this command knowing full well that some mothers and fathers would be hurtful and abusive. 

My mother-in law was badly mistreated by her mother when she was young.  She could have disowned her, but chose to honour her – even taking care of her until she died at 96.  She leaves a legacy of compassion, instead of bitterness.

When we focus on the failures of our parents – and cannot find any good in them – we will pay a heavy price for our unforgiveness.  When we hold deep resentments in our hearts towards our mother or our father, we only hurt ourselves, and the people around us.  We may feel justified in withholding honour because we don’t think they deserve it; but when we hate them, we will end up hating them in ourselves.  This may seem an exaggeration, but the truth is that bitterness is a poison that hurts everyone that comes in contact with it – destroying even what is good.  Only forgiveness can deliver us from bitterness, and even make reconciliation possible.

Even the worst parents gave us life and contributed to who we are as a person – so we need to separate the good from the bad.   

Mary fulfilled a unique role as the mother of Jesus, and lovingly nurtured Him to adulthood.  Joseph also played an essential role in preparing Jesus for His mission – but he never lived to see it.

When Jesus began His ministry, she would often travelled around with Him, and supported His work.   Mary was one of a number of courageous women who stuck with Jesus to the very end.  As she wept at the foot of the cross, Jesus used His last breaths making sure that His mother would be taken care of.  Her broken heart would soon overflow with joy, when she became an eye-witness to His resurrection.

“There is no role in life that is more essential than that of motherhood.”  M. Russell Ballard

Mark Trodd
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www.writersforjesus.com