We have just celebrated another Mothers’ Day. Each year I remember my own mother. Winifred was a wonderful inspiration to me, academically, socially and theologically. She died of cancer two decades ago at the age I am rapidly approaching.
There are a number of references to mothers in the life of Jesus. In John’s gospel we read of a reference by Jesus to his mother while nailed to the cross. No, Jesus did not say "Where is my mother?" That was said in another context earlier in his ministry when he was likening his love of his disciples to the love between mother and child. On the cross what he said was: "Woman, behold your son.” Then he said to John, “Behold, your mother.” This passage is interpreted as Jesus entrusting his mother to the care of the disciple.
In our recent travels in South Africa, Debra and I found it was not uncommon to find in the various guest houses we stayed in pre-loved books to swap. I read three books in our travels and swapped them over as needed. One book was the book by Saroo Brierley called Lion. A movie of the amazing tale followed. Saroo was a 5 year old boy who, when playing on a moving train near his Indian village, fell asleep and arrived hours later, confused and homeless in Calcutta, 1800 kms away. Since he couldn’t articulate where he came from, or who he was, he was taken into an orphanage and later adopted to a couple in Tasmania. Decades later, and after hundreds of hours searching on Google Earth, he located some landmarks he remembered from his village. He flew to India, and reunited with his mother. Twenty five years after losing him, her son had simply reappeared. I defy anyone who says they did not shed a tear as they read of his reunion with her.
In my experience mothers, are typically peacekeepers; the ones who temper our anger, calm our fears, and relieve our anxieties. They sacrifice their own safety and security for their children. They want their children to thrive and not to be held back. There is a similar sentiment found in Proverbs, Chapter 31:13-26. It’s 2500 years old but just as apt today.
“She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family … She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks … Her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff, and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household … She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed …”
I say Amen to that.
Rick Sarre