Motherhood: Stress and Reward

When the days of Mary’s purification were ended (cf. Lev. 12:2, 4), Jesus’ parents took Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (Lk. 2:22-24). While in the temple area, a Holy Spirit guided man held the baby Jesus in his arms (Lk. 2:25-33). After giving a final blessing to Jesus’ parents, Simeon said to Mary, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; 35(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,)...” (Lk. 2:34-35). With these words, Mary was introduced to the realities of motherhood on this earth. True, her child was unique, but what she was told is what conscientious mothers today can expect.

First, motherhood is stressful. “A sword shall pierce through thy soul” is a very blunt way of describing the great disappointment and heartache Mary would experience as a mother. Her child would be violently opposed to the point of being crucified. Imagine Mary’s heartache as she saw that (Jn. 19:25)! Though mothers today may not experience their sons being crucified, they will face disappointment and heartache at times, whether it is because their children fall on their own (Lk. 15:11-13), or others mistreat them (cf. Isa. 53:3).

Second, motherhood has the potential for great reward. Mary knew that the disappointment and heartache she endured would turn to joy in the end because of what her Son would accomplish (Lk. 2:32). Today’s mothers will not have perfect children, but a mother’s disappointment and heartache can still turn to joy when her children accomplish greatness in God’s sight. When a child receives and applies godly parental instruction, “thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice” (Pr. 23:25). Imagine also the joyous reward of a mother in eternity with “all her babies home”!

We are thankful for our mothers, especially those who are conscientiously serving the Lord! Realize that motherhood is not always easy, but rest assured that the disappointment and heartache can pale to insignificance compared to the joy of godly children. Mothers, be not weary in well doing!