A Mother’s Role Changes
Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” -- Luke 8:20-21 (NIV)
I’ve enjoyed witnessing my children grow up and build their lives. They’ve invited me to their workplaces to see what they do. My heart swelled with pride at how well they’ve done watching their work ethic. I stood to the side and saw each one do what they do best.
I’ve especially enjoyed watching them become loving, nurturing parents. Their children’s behavior shows how much love and attention their parents invested has helped in raising them. My kids no longer depend on me as they did when they were young. Certainly, I get calls from them for advice or insight into situations but my role as their mother has changed.
In Luke 8, Jesus’s mother came to see Him while He was busy teaching. She wanted to talk to Him, but didn’t she realize it was time to cut the apron strings? Jesus responded to the messenger, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s Word and put it into practice.” (v. 20) He wasn’t rude; rather, with love, He set a healthy boundary. She treasured the words He spoke, when she should have known He would be doing His Father’s business (Luke 2:51). She treasured Simeon’s words about Him as he expressed gratitude to see the Messiah before he died. It was time for her to step back and treasure Jesus doing ministry. Her role changed from the nurturing, caregiving mother to the supportive, proud mother of her adult Son.
When confronted, we need to step back when our children lovingly—yet firmly—put us in our proper place as moms of independent adults. We can marvel and support them. When they ask our advice, we can offer it. It’s hard to change, but necessary.
Do you struggle cutting the apron strings to let your children grow, make mistakes, and become the mature adults you raised? Take heart. Even Jesus’s mother did. We can praise God for the amazing men and women we’ve nurtured, respect their independence, and proudly support them.
Questions for Reflection:
1. If you have young children, how can you help them become responsible and conscientious?
2. If your children are grown, how can you appreciate the amazing adults you raised?
