One of the very first words that a child learns to speak is mommy or mother. The word denotes warmth, protection, devotion and sacrifice. It doesn’t matter what the language is, the love and affection represented by this single word remains the same everywhere and in every language. This ordinary word has the power to make one feel secure, even in the hardest of times. This wonderful truth is also seen throughout the scriptures.
We see this in particular in the life of Mary. Seen symbolically in early Christianity as the “New Daughter of Zion” (John 12:15), or as a type of the “Pure Church,” she emerges as a central mother-figure in the New Testament, from Jesus’ birth to His crucifixion. On the cross – his disciples scattered, followers in hiding – the marvelous mother of our Lord stayed when the rest of the world walked away. While she is a beautiful role model of Godliness, she is not to be worshiped. Mary, however, is in fact a rich tapestry of genuine motherhood to us all, but let’s look at two other marvelous mothers in the Bible and see what we might gleam from their lives of devotion.
Jochabed, the Mother of Moses
“Now Amram from the house of Levi went and married Jochabed, a Levite woman. The woman conceived and bore a son; and when she saw that he was a goodly baby (a heavenly luster in his countenance), she hid him three months.” Exodus 2:1-2
In Exodus 2:3 we see that Jochabed took Moses and placed him in a papyrus basket plastered with tar and pitch, and by faith (Heb. 11:23), hid him among the reeds in the Nile river. This marvelous mother trusted her child’s welfare and future to God alone, even though the circumstances appeared grim from the natural stand point. Determination and ingenuity saved his life and provided Israel with a great leader. Moses, God’s man of renown, famed for his intimate acquaintance with Jehovah and his eminent usefulness on earth, was a remarkable type of Christ in all the Old Testament as a prophet, savior, lawgiver, and mediator.
Eunice, the Mother of Timothy
“I call to remembrance the unfeigned (sincere) faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that is in you also.” II Timothy 1:5
Timothy is a glorious example of a mothers’ understanding the importance of the early training of her children in the things of God. We can be assured Eunice, another marvelous mother, sat tirelessly reading stories of the Old Testament to Stephen from birth.
Other marvelous mothers throughout the ages helped shape the lives of their children, and history was radically affected in a positive way. Hannah, the mother of Samuel, dedicated and left her son in Eli’s care at the tender age of three years. He ultimately became one of the greatest prophets and leaders in the Old Testament. Salome raised James and John in a Godly atmosphere, and they became disciples of Jesus. It was Rebekah who saw in Jacob great promise, and she got him the birthright. John the Baptist, raised by his godly mother Elizabeth, shaped the spiritual landscape of the New Testament.
What Did These Marvelous Mothers Have in Common?
There are some beautiful similarities worthy of note as seen in the lives of Mary, Jochadbed, Eunice and the other marvelous mothers of the scriptures. First, they all protected, and raised their children in a Godly atmosphere, and then dedicated them to the Lord. Secondly, they recognized their children had “potential for greatness.” They saw the luster of God upon their faces. These women and our mothers are surely: Heaven’s rarest and brightest gems; bright shining stars of hope amidst a darkened world; many splendored miracles of God’s creative work sent to humanity to nurture, protect, and guide the Father’s children to glory. They are God’s choicest fruit from heaven’s garden, bringing with them a liquid light and love that brings joy in sadness, hope in times of despair, and a love that never fails or falters, even when we do not appreciate them as we should.
Dear friend, May 14, 2017 is Mother’s Day. Take a moment to send your mother a card, some flowers. Say a simple prayer of gratitude for her. Give her a phone call, a hug, and tell her how much you love her. We owe so much to our marvelous mothers. We love you “Mom.” Thank you for all your love, dedication, and devotion throughout the year.
Meet the Author
Alan Bullock
Alan Bullock has a BA in Biblical Studies, a Master’s Degree in Biblical Counseling, and an earned Doctor of Theology. In addition, Alan is a Certified Pastor Counselor, a member of The International Association of Christian Counseling Professionals (IACCP), and also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC).