Knowing GodExemplo

The Motherly Love of Our Heavenly Father
by Mark Hayes

I am in awe of the way my wife lives out her genuine love to our children. At every age, in every stage of life, no matter how big or small their challenges, she knows they seem unsurmountable to them. She patiently listens, instructs, cares, and comforts. Sometimes their frustrated responses are over the top and need some correction. She addresses that, too. After all the emotions are expressed and the conversation winds down, she assures them from the heart how deeply we love them and how important they are to us.

My own mother gave me the same treatment when I was growing up. I am incredibly grateful to have for my children what I had for myself. In this broken world, I know there are a lot of people who did not experience that kind of nurturing, and that's something that makes this Bible verse doubly special.

In one way, it reinforces and honors the love of a mother that many have received. At the same time, God brings that same love to those who didn't have it in their lives. Whether you had a loving relationship with your mother or not, God will comfort you "as one whom his mother comforts." God's love is present regardless of human error, past pain, or current stress. In a world where change seems the only constant, it is comforting to know that God's love for you never changes.

Prayer: Dear Father, we are blessed to have your protection and guidance as our Father as well as the compassion and comfort of a mother. Your love for us is infinite. If you don't take away the storm, you hold our hands through it. When things don't go our way, we know your way is best. Thank you for forgiving all our mistakes and patiently listening through our tantrums. Thank you for your unchanging, ever-present love. In your Son's name, we pray. Amen.