As I was reading about the Birth of Jesus in Luke Chapter 2, this time, I am drawn to his mother, Mary. I came across a verse that jumped out at me, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” I started to wonder about its significance. What things about Motherhood did Mary Treasure in her heart?
Mary was a young girl when she became pregnant and faced public disgrace because she was unmarried. Her situation was uncommon. All she knew is that she would give birth to the Son of God. She didn’t know what that meant nor what their life would be like. She simply accepted her calling with humility.
Birth of Jesus
Nearby shepherds hurried off to find the baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger, and they found him just as the Lord said. The shepherds began to spread the word concerning what they’ve been told about the child, and all were amazed. But Mary treasured all these things in her heart.
The Boy Jesus at the Temple
A few verses later, Jesus is twelve years old, and they went to the festival as was the custom. When it was all over, Mary and Joseph returned home and didn’t realize Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem! Can you imagine the panic attack?
They had traveled a whole day before realizing Jesus was not among them. Mary and Joseph had no way of communication, no phone, no text, no car, or knowing what happened.
Three days later… they found Jesus sitting in the temple courts. Like any mother, Mary said to him, “Son, WHY have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.” Jesus told them there was no reason to search because he would always be in his Father’s house. Mary and Joseph did not understand what he was saying. Nevertheless, Jesus left with them and was obedient to them. And once more, we read the same verse, “But Mary treasured all these things in her heart.”
Whenever we see repetition in the bible, we should remember God is placing emphasis or greater importance on something. We should always ask, what is God trying to say?
Motherhood
Does it feel like the world runs on auto-pilot? We rush from one activity to the next, thinking about a gazillion things we must do in the day.
As mothers, we think about everything, meals, homework assignments, household chores, and many other details. We wear multiple hats in our homes! Amid all these activities… Are you hurried, worried, or feeling overwhelmed? Do you wish your children behaved differently? Or wish they were older?
Mary is portrayed as a very thoughtful character. She soaks in the little smiles, the little feet running around naked before shower time, the knee scrapes, the mini conversations. She treasures the details in her heart, the memories of motherhood, because one day they will be no more.
And just like that, in a blink of an eye, my “little one” will turn 17. And, a year from now, he will be an adult fresh out of high school and going out to be a productive member of society.
I want to remind you, momma, to soak in all the details of your children. Take the time to observe your little ones and praise God for the blessing of motherhood.
Treasures Found in a Mother’s Heart
Mary didn’t know how things would turn out. She simply pondered all these things in her heart by soaking in the memories. Storing the promises and the words of God in her heart. She prayed, she praised, and above all treasured them in her heart.
If you are going through a difficult season with your children. Remember not to beat yourself up. Whatever decision your children make is their decision. We cannot blame ourselves because God gives us free will. We can, however, feel compassion for our children. I encourage you to help, care, nurture, and embrace their uniqueness.
Related: 3 Tips for Parenting a Teenager with Depression
Just like our children depend on us, we must also depend on God daily, for motherhood.
There is no one better than you. Remember, in your care, are future doctors, nurses, pilots, social workers, or parents. God picked you to be the beacon of light and hope to your family, community, and society.
Feel free to leave me a comment and let me know how many children you have and their ages.
♥ Blessings!