Almost 20 years ago, when I was in the midst of mothering, I used to write articles for the newsletter of a church we were attending. My column was aptly called "A Mother's Heart". The following is from the December issue 1989.
P.S. This is also my (gasp) 100th post! Tune in on December 26th for news of my first Giveaway!
As I was thinking what to write about for Christmas, my thoughts kept turning to Mary, the mother of Jesus. Maybe because mothering is such a significant part of my life right now; and because we've both borne babies and cared for children, I feel a sort of kinship with her.
God knew ahead of time that she would be a wonderful mother, to bestow her with the awesome responsibility of giving birth to and caring for His Son. That baby, who would grow up to be the only Person in the world that would have a major impact of billions of people, and be able to literally change their lives, to eternal life!
The Bible is silent on the subject, but I like to think that Mary was a typical human, imperfect mother. Perhaps she had bad days when her bread dough didn't rise properly or turn out right, or her broom broke and she couldn't sweep, or she wasn't able to finish her laundry--days when things didn't go accordingly and she felt overwhelmed and frustrated. Maybe on those days she was a little too harsh to young Jesus. But then she'd realize her attitude and seek forgiveness from her son and her Heavenly Father. God know all that before He chose Mary; that she was going to have stressful days and react from them, but He knew her heart. And He knew that in her heart she wanted to be the best mother that she could be. She depended solely on God to guide and direct her mothering (there were no "How to Parent" books back then!)
What I also like to think is that God felt the same way when I was having my children. He knew in my heart that I wanted to be the best mother that I could be and He entrusted me with three very precious children. He also knew what kind of days I would have. When I would feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and tired and I would be harsh with my children simply because they were the most convenient. Then, realizing that my attitude needed adjusting, I would go to the Lord and ask for forgiveness. And God is always faithful to forgive and restore peace and harmony. The same peace that He would give Mary on "those days" 2000 years ago.
Luke 1:46-50
And Mary said, "My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond slave. For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things for me; and Holy is His name. And His mercy is upon generation after generation towards those who fear Him."
May you experience God's mercy and grace this glorious Christmas!
Thank you for posting this superb article...you certainly captured a "Mother's Heart" and I somehow had never thought about what life must have been like for her as Jesus was growing up.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, ;-) Bo
I believe there is a book called "A Mother's Heart" or at least an article. I'll have to check it out and see and send it to you if I can find it, honey. I am sitting here in tears reading your post today. I understand what you mean. I sometimes grieve over my parenting skills as a young mother, but as you say, there are no books on how to mother - except the Bible, sweet cherub. Isn't it strange how we get so tender hearted as we age.
ReplyDeleteCome over and read my "memories" from today's post. I think it'll stir up more memories for ya, chickee! ;-)
Smooches and Merry CHRISTmas,
Connie
I can only say Amen. ;) He is the giver of all good things!! How blessed we are to have you in our lives.
ReplyDeleteMyrna, thank you for your lovely thoughts, and I wanted to tell you how nice it was to meet you yesterday!
ReplyDeleteHere's wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
XO,
Sheila :-)
Myrna,
ReplyDeleteThis was an absolutely beautiful post that pulled at every mother's heartstrings! It's so comforting to know that no matter what my shortcomings are, God still picked me to be the mother of my gorgeous daughter!!!
Love and best wishes to you for a blessed Christmas!
Lori
That was touching. Oh the joys and trials of being a mother. But what a special priviledge we are given. Reflecting here at Christmas time.
ReplyDeleteHugs
Becky