Honoring the Sacred Gift of Mothers

Mother’s Day is a time to give thanks for one of God’s most profound blessings: the love of mothers. Whether through biology, adoption, mentorship, or care, motherhood is expressed in beautiful and diverse ways—and all are worthy of honor.

Mothers of the Bible

From the beginning, Scripture recognizes the sacred role of mothers. Eve is named “the mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20, NRSV), reminding us that life begins with a mother’s presence. Sarah waited in faith. Hannah prayed with tears. And Mary, the mother of Jesus, responded to God’s call with courage and humility:

“Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.”—Luke 1:38 (NRSV)

Mary stayed with Jesus through it all, even at the cross (John 19:25–27). Her presence shows us the enduring strength and sacrificial love that so many mothers live out daily.

God’s Love Revealed in a Mother’s Care

The Bible also uses maternal imagery to describe God’s love:

“As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you.”—Isaiah 66:13 (NRSV)

This nurturing, gentle love—so often seen in mothers—offers us a glimpse of God’s own heart.

For Spiritual Mothers, Caregivers, and Nurturers

Motherhood is not limited to giving birth. Paul recognized this in Romans 16:13, when he greeted “Rufus, chosen in the Lord; and his mother—and mine.” Paul likely wasn't biologically related to her, but she had become like a mother to him through her faith and care.

We honor the women who mentor, teach, and offer guidance as spiritual mothers. We see you. You are vital to the life of the church.

For Those Who Love in Unexpected Ways

We also lift up women who care deeply for God’s creatures—those who nurture animals and offer love to the voiceless and vulnerable of creation. Whether you’re bottle-feeding a rescue kitten, comforting an aging dog, or tending to livestock with tenderness and respect, this kind of love reflects God’s compassion for all creation (Proverbs 12:10).Your care speaks to the truth that love and nurturing come in many forms—and they all matter.

For Those Who Grieve

Mother’s Day can be painful. Some grieve the loss of a mother, the loss of a child, or the unfulfilled longing to become a mother. Some carry wounds from broken relationships or complicated histories. We hold space for your sorrow, and we honor your journey. As the Body of Christ, we “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15, NRSV).

A Prayer of Gratitude and Hope

God of all comfort and love, We thank you for mothers in all their forms—for those who gave us life, for those who raised us, and for those who nurtured us in faith. We bless the women who care for children, for animals, for the earth, and for one another. May they feel seen, valued, and deeply loved today. Comfort those who mourn and strengthen those who carry the quiet weight of caregiving. Let all women know that their love reflects Your image in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Happy Mother’s Day. You are cherished.

Scripture References (NRSV):

• Genesis 3:20

• Luke 1:38

• John 19:25–27

• Isaiah 66:13

• Romans 16:13

• Romans 12:15

• Proverbs 12:10

Bibliography:

• Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version. National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, 1989.

• Brown, Raymond E., The Birth of the Messiah. Yale University Press, 1993.

• Thompson, Marjorie J., Soul Feast: An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life. Westminster John Knox Press, 2014.