Reflections on Motherhood: Courage, Love, and Presence
Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the gift of mothers and to reflect on the profound ways their lives mirror the very heart and character of God. We honored not only biological mothers, but all women who have nurtured, taught, and cared for others, recognizing the many forms that motherly love can take. Through the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, we explored three defining attributes that shape both motherhood and our understanding of God’s love: courageous faith, steadfast love, and unwavering presence.
Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel in Luke 1 is a powerful example of courageous faith. Faced with an unimaginable calling, she responded not with doubt, but with trust and obedience: “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” This courage is echoed in the lives of mothers everywhere, who step into the unknown, make sacrifices, and trust God with the lives of their children, even when the path is uncertain.
We also considered Mary’s steadfast love, seen most vividly at the cross. When others fled, Mary remained by Jesus’ side, loving him to the very end. This unwavering devotion is a reflection of God’s own love for us—a love that endures through every joy and sorrow, every triumph and tragedy. The love of a mother is often the clearest earthly picture we have of God’s relentless, pursuing love.
Finally, we looked at Mary’s unwavering presence, not only during Jesus’ life but even after his ascension, as she continued to support the early church in prayer and encouragement. Mothers shape our lives not just through their words, but through their constant presence—bringing peace, stability, and a sense of belonging. Their presence reminds us of the abiding presence of Christ, who promises never to leave or forsake us.
As we honored mothers today, we were reminded to cherish the time we have with them, to recognize the marks they leave on our lives, and to see in their example a call to courageous faith, steadfast love, and unwavering presence in our own walk with God. We closed by coming to the Lord’s table, remembering Christ’s sacrifice and the grace that enables us to live lives of gratitude and love.
Key Takeaways
- Courageous Faith in the Face of the Unknown
Mary’s response to the angel’s announcement was not one of fear or skepticism, but of courageous faith. She trusted God with a calling that defied human understanding, modeling a faith that steps forward even when the path is unclear. This kind of courage is essential in our own lives, especially when God calls us to places we have never been before. [39:32]
- Steadfast Love that Endures All Things
Mary’s love for Jesus did not waver, even as she watched him suffer and die. Her steadfast presence at the cross is a testament to a love that endures through pain, disappointment, and loss. This enduring love is a reflection of God’s own love for us—a love that remains constant regardless of our circumstances. [41:57]
- The Power of Unwavering Presence
Mary’s ongoing involvement in Jesus’ life, and later in the life of the early church, shows the transformative power of simply being present. Mothers shape us not just by what they say, but by their faithful presence in our lives, offering stability and peace. In the same way, God’s presence with us is a source of comfort and strength, shaping our character and faith. [43:34]
- Sacrifice that Leaves a Mark
Motherhood requires deep sacrifice—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Mary’s willingness to give herself fully to God’s plan, and the sacrifices she made for her son, remind us that true love always costs something. The marks left by sacrificial love are not signs of weakness, but of strength and devotion, echoing the sacrificial love of Christ. [36:22]
- Honoring and Cherishing the Gift of Mothers
We are called to honor our mothers, to spend time with them, and to recognize the unique and irreplaceable role they play in our lives. For those whose mothers are no longer with us, the longing for more time is a poignant reminder to cherish every moment. In honoring our mothers, we honor the God who gave them to us as a reflection of his own love and care. [47:42]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[08:25] - Honoring Mothers and All Women
[09:50] - Children Distribute Gifts to Women
[11:24] - Children’s Prayer for Moms
[12:46] - Prayer of Thanksgiving and Offering
[15:00] - Worship and Praise
[30:37] - Introduction to Mary’s Story
[31:49] - Reading Luke 1:26-38
[33:35] - The Gift and Challenge of Motherhood
[36:22] - The Sacrifice of Mothers
[38:24] - Mary’s Courageous Faith
[41:57] - Mary’s Steadfast Love at the Cross
[43:34] - The Unwavering Presence of Mothers
[47:42] - Cherishing and Honoring Mothers
[48:47] - Prayer of Blessing for Mothers
[50:04] - Communion: Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice
[56:18] - Invitation to the Lord’s Table
[58:38] - Commissioning of New Pathways Director
[01:08:31] - Benediction and Closing
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: The Heart of Motherhood and the Love of God
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### Bible Reading
Luke 1:26-38
*(The angel Gabriel appears to Mary and announces the birth of Jesus. Mary responds with faith and obedience.)*
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### Observation Questions
1. In Luke 1:26-38, what is Mary’s initial reaction to the angel’s greeting, and how does the angel reassure her?
2. What specific words does Mary use to respond to the angel’s message, and what do they reveal about her attitude?
3. According to the sermon, what are the three main attributes of Mary that reflect both motherhood and God’s character? ([33:35])
4. When Jesus was on the cross, who remained with him, and what does this show about Mary’s love? ([41:57])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is Mary’s response to the angel considered an act of courageous faith, especially compared to Zechariah’s response? ([39:32])
2. The sermon describes Mary’s love as “steadfast” and “unwavering.” How does this kind of love reflect God’s love for us? ([41:57])
3. What is the significance of Mary’s ongoing presence with the early church after Jesus’ ascension? How does this shape our understanding of spiritual influence? ([43:34])
4. The pastor mentioned that motherhood leaves a mark, both physically and emotionally. How does this idea connect to the sacrifices made in following Christ? ([36:22])
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### Application Questions
1. Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” Is there an area in your life where God is calling you to trust Him, even if the path is unclear? What would it look like to respond with Mary’s kind of faith? ([39:32])
2. Think about a time when someone showed you steadfast love, especially during a difficult season. How did that impact you? Is there someone in your life who needs that kind of love from you right now? ([41:57])
3. The sermon talked about the power of simply being present. Who in your life needs your presence and encouragement this week? What practical step can you take to be there for them? ([43:34])
4. Mothers often make sacrifices that go unnoticed. Is there a sacrifice you’ve made (or seen someone else make) that left a lasting mark? How does recognizing these sacrifices change the way you honor or thank others? ([36:22])
5. For those whose mothers are still living, what is one specific way you can honor or cherish your mother (or a mother figure) this week? For those whose mothers are no longer here, how can you honor their memory or the legacy they left in your life? ([47:42])
6. The sermon closed with communion, remembering Christ’s sacrifice. How does reflecting on Jesus’ sacrificial love inspire you to live with more gratitude and love in your daily life? ([50:04])
7. The example of Mary calls us to courageous faith, steadfast love, and unwavering presence. Which of these do you feel God is inviting you to grow in right now? What is one step you can take this week to move in that direction? ([33:35])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to thank God for the mothers and women who have shaped their lives, and to ask for courage, love, and presence as they follow Christ’s example.
Devotional
Day 1: Courageous Faith in the Face of the Unknown
Mary’s response to the angel’s message is a profound example of courageous faith—she is asked to believe in something never before seen, to trust God’s plan even when it defies human understanding, and to surrender herself fully to God’s will. Her words, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said,” reveal a heart that is open, obedient, and willing to step into the unknown, trusting that God will provide and guide her through every uncertainty. This kind of faith is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to move forward despite it, believing that God’s promises are true and that He is able to do the impossible. [39:32]
Luke 1:26-38 (ESV)
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel uncertain or afraid of what God might be asking you to do? How can you respond with Mary’s courageous faith today, saying, “Let it be to me as you have said”?
Day 2: Steadfast Love That Endures
Mary’s love for Jesus is steadfast and unwavering, present through every joy and every sorrow—even to the foot of the cross. When others fled, she remained, embodying a love that does not give up or turn away in the face of suffering. This steadfast love is a reflection of God’s own love for us: constant, immovable, and present in both triumph and tragedy. The love of a mother, as seen in Mary, is a vessel for God’s love, reminding us that we are never alone and always cherished, no matter the circumstances. [43:34]
John 19:25-27 (ESV)
But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
Reflection: Who in your life needs to experience steadfast love from you today, especially in a difficult or painful season? How can you be present for them in a way that reflects God’s enduring love?
Day 3: An Unwavering Presence
Mary’s presence in Jesus’ life did not end with his earthly ministry; even after his ascension, she remained with the early believers, praying and encouraging them as they waited for the Holy Spirit. Her unwavering presence is a reminder of the power of simply being there for others—offering support, encouragement, and a sense of peace that shapes lives and communities. Just as Mary’s presence was irreplaceable, so too is the presence we offer to those we love, reflecting the abiding presence of Christ in our lives. [46:01]
Acts 1:14 (ESV)
All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.
Reflection: Is there someone in your life who needs your presence more than your words or advice today? How can you intentionally show up for them and be a source of encouragement and peace?
Day 4: Honoring the Gift of Mothers
Mothers are a precious gift from God, shaping our lives through their love, sacrifice, and wisdom. The call to honor our mothers is not just a commandment, but an invitation to recognize and celebrate the ways they reflect God’s character—through courageous faith, steadfast love, and unwavering presence. Whether your mother is with you or has gone on to glory, take time to honor her today: spend time, express gratitude, and cherish the moments you have, for these relationships are a blessing that shapes who we are. [47:42]
Ephesians 6:2-3 (ESV)
“Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”
Reflection: What is one specific way you can honor your mother or a mother figure in your life today—through words, actions, or time spent together?
Day 5: Living a Life of Gratitude and Grace
As we remember the example of Mary and the love of Christ, we are called to live lives marked by gratitude, grace, and a willingness to serve. Even when life is messy or difficult, God’s kindness and mercy remain, inviting us to respond with thankful hearts and to extend the grace we have received to others. Let your prayer echo Mary’s: “I am the Lord’s servant, may it be unto me as you have said,” and seek to live each day as a pattern of gratitude and grace, blessing others as you have been blessed. [53:48]
Colossians 3:15-17 (ESV)
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to cultivate more gratitude or extend more grace? What is one practical step you can take today to live out a pattern of gratitude and grace toward others?
Quotes
Being a mother is the greatest gift in the world. It doesn't always feel like the greatest gift in the world, but it is the greatest gift. To carry a life, to give birth to a child, to raise them and be close to them, to be in their lives, to pour your very heart and soul into this child or children is an incredible, incredible privilege. The scriptures tell us that children are a gift from the Lord. [00:34:13]
It takes an extraordinary act of courage to be a mother. Mothers give so much to their children. They sacrifice their bodies. Giving birth to a child is hard on the female body. It's hard. It leaves a mark. It requires a sacrifice. It takes a toll. And so very really, when we give birth or when ladies give birth to their children, they leave a mark on you. [00:36:22]
But it also requires something unseen because mothers have this way of giving everything they are to their children, their very heart. If their husbands do something wrong or something happens to them, they are not nearly as defensive nor as caring as they are with their children. Amen? It used to offend me, but it doesn't anymore. [00:36:58]
It's because mothers give a piece of themselves, maybe all of themselves, to their children. There is nothing they wouldn't do. There is no length to which they wouldn't go because of their children. [00:37:25]
She is being asked to participate in something that has never before happened and never since happened. An extraordinary event on which most of the entirety of our faith rests, the virgin birth of Christ, because if this is true, then everything must be true. [00:38:33]
She's being asked to believe in something that has never happened, and to somehow believe without being with a man that she can indeed become pregnant, that the Holy Spirit will overshadow her, will be able to help her conceive this child. Extraordinary ask. [00:38:56]
No one would have faulted her if she would have said, yeah, I don't think so. Or I'm not sure I believe that. But her response is perfect. A perfect example of the courage of mothers. I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said. [00:39:15]
There is mixed in her question the courage of her faith. She believes, she trusts, that whatever God is doing, that God is going to make these things happen. She believes in something that has never been seen before. A testament of courageous faith. [00:40:46]
She's obedient, opening herself up to the work of the Lord, though she didn't understand how this was going to take place. Courageous, courageous faith. [00:41:08]
To the bitter end, she goes with Jesus. She is there at his side, constantly present in his life, loving him to the very end. If you've seen The Passion of the Christ, there is this wonderful scene. It's not biblical, but it is a wonderful imagining of maybe what Mary was thinking. [00:41:54]
In addition to courageous faith, Mary has steadfast love, a love that never ends, a love that never wanes, a love that is steadfast in success and in disappointment, in tragedy and in victory. Mary is steadfast with Christ. [00:42:27]
Though she didn't understand many of the things that he did, she loved him and believed in him to the bitter end. There's an old Jewish proverb that talks about the love of mothers. It says this, God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers. [00:42:53]
To love, to be a vessel for his love. There is no purer love, I think, than the love of a mother for her children. It's a reflection of the love of God for you and I. Steadfast, immovable, constant. Mary stays by the side of Jesus. [00:43:17]
A picture of the steadfast love of Christ for us in the midst of tragedy and horror. She is there. Speaking of her presence there, Mary is an unwavering, the third attribute, an unwavering presence in the life of her son. [00:43:37]
Even after Jesus is gone, even after he has ascended, Mary is still involved in the mission of Jesus to the world. She's gathered with the other believers, no doubt encouraging them, no doubt just by her presence, a reminder of the extraordinary miracle of Jesus' life. [00:45:04]
A mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one can take. There's something about a mother, a mother's love, caring, that is irreplaceable. Reminds us of the presence of Christ. [00:46:06]
There is nothing quite like the presence of God. When you're in the midst of it, when you can sense it, when you feel it, it changes everything. It shapes your life. And so a mother's unwavering presence shapes our lives. [00:46:28]
Mothers have that wonderful way of being a presence in the home that brings peace. And the saying is true, if mama ain't happy, nobody's happy. Mother's presence reminds us of the presence of Christ and the importance of it in our life. [00:47:22]
Mary teaches us these things. She reminds us of the beauty and the presence that mothers are in our lives. Until this day, I encourage you, spend time with your mom. Don't look at a watch. Don't consider other options. Spend time with your mom. [00:47:42]
For those among us, their mom may have gone on to glory and they wish they could get that time back. So spend that time. Honor your mother. Tell her how much you love her. And look at her life. I'm sure you'll see courageous faith and steadfast love and an unwavering presence in your life. [00:48:07]
May our prayer be the prayer of Mary, I am the Lord's servant, may it be unto me as you have said. [00:53:55]
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