VAL HALLORAN, a mother and grandmother:
UNDERSTANDING YOUR PRIORITIES
Twice already today, I have listened to women who feel that being a mother and wife is not accomplishing much for God. Our culture has subtly programmed women to believe that their high calling as a mother doesn't compare to the contributions of women out in the work world who are earning a living to provide their families with material things.
WHEN YOU RECEIVE A LITTLE CHILD INTO YOUR ARMS, YOU RECEIVE JESUS
Let me encourage you mothers who are feeling that your role is not significant. Remember that Jesus said that those who receive a little one in his name, receive Him (Matthew 18:1-5; Mark 9:33-37; and Luke 9:46-48).
WHEN YOU EMBRACE MOTHERHOOD, YOU ARE SEEKING FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD
When he told his disciples to seek first the kingdom of God in order that all their material needs be met, He later compared the kingdom of God to ministering to children when he said, “of such is the kingdom.” (Matthew 19:14; Mark 10:4; and Luke 18:16).
WHEN YOU NURTURE CHILDREN AND SERVE THE NEEDY, YOU ARE DOING GOD’S WORK
When widows were to be considered by churches for receiving financial help, the criteria was that the widow had been known for nurturing children and ministering to the saints, not for having had a lucrative career, or some other socially recognizable achievement (1 Timothy 5:10). This is not to disparage women who have ministered through a career, but it is to encourage those whom God has blessed with children to see their short time with them as a stewardship and eternally significant calling.
YOU ARE STORING UP TREASURE IN HEAVEN
It is not an insignificant thing to see the children with which God has blessed us as the highest treasure that we have been given. Jesus said to store up treasure in heaven, not earthly things that fade away (Matthew 6:19-21). Children are eternal souls and any investment we make into nurturing and teaching them of their highest calling in life, which is to know, love, and serve God, is storing up treasure in heaven.
YOU ARE DOING WHAT GOD PLANNED
Titus 2 tells older women to encourage the younger women to love their husbands and children. If this priority weren't at the heart of God for women, He would've encouraged women in all the other things that the world encourages.
YOU ARE DOING THE MOST IMPORTANT JOB IN THE WORLD
Mother, don't let the world lie to you about what's important! Keep on investing in those lives that will all too soon leave the nest. You are doing the most important job in the world!
~ Val Halloran (mother and grandmother).
Painting by Jessie Willcox Smith.