A Day-by-day devotional

May 14, 2023

Mother

Chronological One Year Bible Reading Plan: Psalm 51, 66-71

Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 31

In our generation, societal norm is that, women get married at a certain legal age. Most commonly, this would have to be 18, across the globe. In Jewish ancient tradition, at the time of Jesus, marriageable age ranges between 13-15. This age range is definitely young, as girls would just have freshly come out of puberty. Girls in this age in our current society are considered to still be children.

Without having to consider culture and tradition, biologically, a girl of 13 or 14, is still in the developmental stages into becoming physically as well as mentally, an adult. Therefore, even with the criteria used in ancient times, such an age is still very young.

Mary of Nazareth, the mother of Jesus, however, gave birth to him at around this age. The difficulties that she had to undergo do not only include physical and physiological aspects. The fact that she conceived of her son prior to her marriage to Joseph could have led to psychological challenges as well. She had to deal with rumors and accusations that could have led to her death. Nonetheless, motherhood was the very calling God gave her. And she has embraced it fully.

When the angel was sent to deliver her the message, that she, a virgin betrothed to an honorable man, was chosen to carry God’s Son, she agreed. The words of a faithful servant still resonates to this day as she said, “I am the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me as you have said“ (Luke 1:38). So it was. After nine months, she birthed the Savior into the world.

Could you even imagine what this young girl must have gone through? What thoughts were on her mind when she was told that she would give birth to God‘s Son? She was afraid, yet her love for God overcame her fear. Moreover, she has endured what could possibly be one of the most tragic and painful things a mother could experience- the suffering, humiliation and death of her son. Yet, she pondered everything in her heart.

Not much is said in the bible about Mary‘s motherhood. We could only imagine and read between the lines. Nonetheless, considering the records of what Jesus went through since He started His ministry, we could very well deduce how troubled and anxious Mary had been for her son. He was in constant argument with the religious authorities, and later the heated scrutiny of the Roman government came upon Him. Mary must have feared for her son‘s life. That is definitely not an easy road.

A mother who is being a mother would always care for her children. No matter if they are old or young. And yes, even if you know how special He is, being God’s son whose earthly existence has been entrusted to happen through you. Mary was just a human being like us. She was called for a very special purpose, and considered to blessed among all women (Luke 1:42). Even though she was highly privileged to be the mother of Jesus, she still acknowledged her need of a Savior (Luke 1:46).

Although we wouldn’t find much about her life as a mother detailed in the bible, we could know for sure that a faithful servant like Mary would have done her best to be an excellent mother. This, especially since she knew that the child she carried in her womb and gave birth to, was God’s Son.

Just like Mary, most mothers strive to be the best mothers they could be. Although imperfect, their love could be made perfect in Christ.

Reflection: Not all women are called to be mothers. But all women and likewise men, have mothers. Like all other human beings, mothers would never be perfect. However much they strive, there would always be a falling short. Nevertheless, it is one of the greatest and highest callings in life. Therefore, celebrate your mother!

Prayer: Dear God, today, I lift my mother to you in prayer. Take care of her always and be with her. Bless her with so much more than she has ever given. Touch her heart in ways that only you can. Hold her in your hands. Amen.