And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. -2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

References to the attributes of God, particularly those that relate to the roles we understand as mother and father, are all throughout the scriptures.  Interestingly, we must understand that God is neither male nor female.  God is a spirit.  This is an important distinction, because we must also understand that it is we who are made in the image of God and not the other way around. (Genesis 1:27)  That being said, every good thing about humankind is in some way a reflection of our good God.  By design, then, a mother’s love is a reflection of God.

We love because he first loved us. –1 John 4:19 (NIV)

As the coronavirus pandemic overshadows yet another special day of observance, we continue to take stock of what is most important.  Today is Mother’s Day in America, a day when we honor our mothers and thank God for them.  Whether we are with our mothers or separated by social distancing, we can meditate on the goodness of God reflected through our mothers. The ideal experience of a mother’s love was to be our first earthly exposure to the essence of God’s love for us.  God’s love provides security, especially during times like these.  It is no coincidence that whenever we are feeling a need for nurturing and comfort, we often seek out our mothers.  Even God himself describes that aspect of his personality in these terms:

As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you… –Isaiah 66:13

God designed mothers to be a special earthly representation of his lovingkindness.  In his great love for us, God provided a way for us, as his image-bearers, to be born AND a way for us to be reborn!  No matter how the sins of this world serve to damage the image of God on every one of us as his children, God still finds us worth redeeming.  For every mother and for every child—especially those struggling with profound brokenness—there is a renewal awaiting you. (Colossians 3:10)  This is for every father, too!  God, our creator, says you are still his image-bearer.  God’s saving grace is available to you today.

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. –Ephesians 2:4-5 (NIV)

On this Mother’s Day, we honor our mothers and give thanks and praise to God for the earthly reminder of his wonderful love.  We also thank God for his saving grace.  May you be profoundly aware of this truth today and be blessed!  Happy Mother’s Day!