Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, grandmas, and spiritual mothers. Reflecting on the significance of mothers through the lens of Scripture, we explore the "principle of first mention" in Genesis 3. This principle suggests that the first time a concept is mentioned in the Bible, it sets a trajectory for understanding its significance throughout Scripture. This is particularly relevant for mothers.

The first woman called a "mother" in the Bible is Eve, but remarkably, she is called this before she even has children. Genesis 3:20 tells us, "Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living." In a world just cursed with sin and death, Eve is named as the mother of all the living. This name, given before she bears children, signifies a profound calling rooted in hope and promise.

Being a mother, whether biologically or spiritually, is a vital calling. It's about partnering with God and others to nurture, guide, and point the next generation toward God. This calling transcends cultural stereotypes and societal expectations. It's not about adhering to a specific checklist or achieving perfection. Instead, it’s about embodying characteristics that reflect God's nurturing, protective, and guiding nature.

Eve’s story highlights that motherhood is not the only or highest calling of a woman. The essential calling is to extend the flourishing of Eden—to work alongside God in cultivating a world where His presence is evident. This was Eve's call and remains our call today.

Consider the story of Cain, Abel, and Seth in Genesis 4. Cain, whose name means "acquire," represents a pursuit of progress and prosperity. Abel, meaning "vapor," signifies the fleeting nature of life. Seth, whose name means "appointed," symbolizes a foundation for a flourishing world. These names reflect different directions in which our lives and the lives of our children can be aimed.

Eve’s life and the legacy of her children demonstrate the importance of aiming beyond temporary successes and achievements. It's about nurturing a dependence on God, recognizing our weaknesses, and pointing toward eternal hope. Seth's lineage leads to Enosh, whose name means "weak" or "tender." This reflects a recognition of our dependence on God, which is vital for cultivating a life that calls on the name of the Lord.

Our calling as mothers and spiritual mothers is to model this dependence and guide the next generation toward a relationship with God. It's a high and holy calling that extends beyond biological motherhood, inviting all women to participate in God’s redemptive work.

Reflection Questions

1. How can you embody the nurturing and guiding characteristics of God in your interactions with the next generation?
2. In what ways can you aim to point your children or those you mentor toward eternal hope rather than temporary achievements?
3. Reflecting on Eve’s story, how can you live out your calling with hope and trust in God’s promises, even before seeing specific provisions?