From Eve, “the mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20) to “Babylon the Great, the mother of harlots” (Revelation 17:5),  Scripture abounds with references to mothers, both good and bad.  At least 299 verses contain references to mothers of some sort.  God manifested His evaluation of the status of mothers as He, through Moses, enjoined respect for one’s mother: “Honor your father and your mother” (Deuteronomy 5:16). “Every one of you shall revere his mother” (Leviticus 19:3).   One who cursed or assaulted his mother (or father) was subject to capital punishment (Leviticus 20:9).   Though the death penalty for such behavior is not carried over into the New Testament, the command to respect (honor and obey) one’s parents certainly is (Ephesians 6:1-3).

Mothers’ influence upon their children demonstrates their importance. About half of the kings of Israel and Judah are identified, in part, by who their mothers were.  Some of these were good kings whose fathers were wicked.  Might they have been influenced by godly mothers?   We know for certain that at least a few of the wicked kings emulated their corrupt mothers.  Whether a child seeks relief from physical pain, or understanding and forgiveness for a blunder, who can comfort better than Mother?   God likens His own comfort to that of a mother (Isaiah 66:13 “as one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; and you shall be comforted in Jerusalem”).  What a grand compliment to mothers everywhere!

Along with his grandmother, Lois, Timothy’s mother, Eunice, illustrates the importance of a godly mother’s influence.  Timothy’s father was a Greek (Acts 16:1) and evidently had refused to allow Timothy to fully embrace the Jewish faith.   Nevertheless, Eunice and Lois ensured that the boy knew the Scriptures from earliest childhood (2 Timothy 3:15).  We are not surprised that  Paul saw such potential in him that he took him along on the second missionary journey. Countless souls whom Timothy influenced for Christ can thank Eunice and Lois for a job well done.

Mothers, our hats are off to you, not only on this traditional holiday, but every day. In many ways, you are our unsung heroines. Thank you for your dignity, your godly examples, your teaching, and your comfort.   May you realize how precious you are, and may our Lord exalt you in due season!