Inspirational Message: Mary, a Model Mother

By Gladys McElmore

For many years, special emphasis has been placed on motherhood. No woman can discount what it means to bear in her own body the life of another person. Clearly known are the sacrifices that are made by any woman to rear a child and therefore a unique bond extends between mother and child. This was especially true in ancient times when the mother was the first and only teacher and caregiver for a child. What great responsibility it was for Mary to have carried within her body the Messiah! Such a holy privilege had to be given to someone who could have borne both the blessings and the burdens that accompanied the honor. Surely God found that kind of person in Mary of Nazareth.

Through the gospels of Matthew and Luke, we have excellent opportunities to accurately access the worldwide adorations of Mary that are ageless, classless, raceless, and timeless. Stories of her greatness have spread to the ends of the earth. She never exalted herself. Her faith was tested when she was found with child by the Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:18-25).

Mary, the mother of Jesus, became the center of women’s history in the New Testament. Mary was, and still is, considered “Blessed Among Women.” No other woman has been so honored in art, music and literature. A mother is priceless in many ways. Mary’s greatness had begun as a peasant more than 2000 years ago. As we read Matthew and Luke to learn more details, how can we glorify God and Mary as the shepherds did many years earlier? How can Mary’s story encourage us to be spiritually stronger and more obedient to God as present day mothers?

Today, let us see Mary’s faith and the birth of her son as the greatest miracle in the Bible. Mary’s purity and humbleness are found in Luke 1 when she questioned her selection to become Jesus’ mother. She was last mentioned in Acts 1:14 when she was praying in the upper room in Jerusalem. In her service, Mary portrayed noble qualities of a model mother. Christians still honor her and she has been exalted because of her obedience to God. How can we use her story to enhance our faith in God?

Mary, as a woman of faith, believed God and carried the hope of the world! A mother’s love never stops. Her caring never ends. All mothers give the gift of life on which the world depends.

Mrs. Gladys R. McElmore, a resident of Norfolk’s Middle Town Arch Community, is a New Journal and Guide Freelance Contributor on religion. She is a native of Essex County, Va.