The most notable woman in the entire Bible was not a famous military leader nor a prophetess. She was a young woman, seemingly ordinary, living a special purpose. In a brave gesture, around two thousand years ago, a woman put her existence at risk. She did not command troops, inspire crowds with her words, nor participate in political conflicts. “She was a mother.”
On a certain day, Mary received a visit from the angel Gabriel, announcing that she had been chosen to bear God’s son. “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). At that moment, Mary’s “yes” changed the course of history. After that “yes” the world would never be the same. This applies to Mary, Joseph, you and me.
You might think that Mary is important because she is the mother of Jesus Christ. However, even if we consider all notable leaders or historical figures, for example: Albert Einstein or Aristotle, no one will remember the names of their mothers. In the trajectory of humanity, we know notable women. Queens, leaders, businesswomen, academic authors, military personnel, among others. It is fascinating to reflect that, despite all of them having had inspiring experiences, Mary, more than any other woman, remains the most recognized and remembered. And Mary, in turn, was “only a mother”. She is remembered for being a mother, simply, the mother of the son of God.
Today, I would like to honor the mothers who embraced their children, who teach them with integrity, and who play a fundamental role in God’s plan for us in this mortal life. We thank all the mothers who teach the truths to their children from an early age. And, just like Mary, they guide their children on the path of God. As Paul quotes in a letter to Timothy:
When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also (2 Timothy 1:5).
And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).
There is an eternal influence and power in motherhood. In the Book of Mormon, we find the account of two thousand remarkable young people who stood out for their bravery, courage and strength. “Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him” (Alma 53:21/24:77). Those faithful young men were taught by their mothers “…yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, that God would deliver them” (Alma 56:47/26:56).
The challenges mothers face today require greater attention than ever. Compared to any other time in history, we need mothers who have knowledge, as Article of Faith No. 9 says: “We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God” (An Epitome of Faith and Doctrine/RLDS). However, mothers should not worry. If they are clear about their identity and God’s, and if they have made agreements with Him, they will have immense power and a beneficial influence on their children.
The role of a mother is extremely difficult and is often not valued enough. It is crucial to recognize that raising children is an activity that justifies all the effort of previous generations; it is of great importance today and always will be. There is no job in the world that is as challenging and rewarding as guiding, teaching, and shaping someone else’s path. The mother’s contribution is fundamental to the existence of her children. ONLY GOD’S LOVE COMPARES TO A MOTHER’S LOVE.
In an interview for the Microfone Aberto podcast, family doctor Aner Rocha reported that a mother’s kiss, or blowing a kiss, on her child’s wound has the ability to reduce pain. The connection between mother and child is a question that defies science, being irresistibly profound and beautiful. A true mystery of affection so intense that it makes us think that, after we have a child, we will never again be able to enjoy life just for ourselves. A mother’s love must be something sacred, there is no other way to understand it. What mothers accomplish is a fundamental part of the Work of Christ.
Who will be responsible for educating this righteous generation that will inhabit Zion? Women will take on this role, those who have a deep love and knowledge of the Lord and share their testimony; women who remain firm and constant and do not give up in times of adversity or discouragement. Do not forget that we are led by a prophet inspired by God. No one among us has the wisdom necessary to triumph in isolation. We require the assistance, intelligence and direction of the Almighty to make those choices that will have a significant impact on our existence. Prayer cannot be replaced by anything, as there is no source of support more effective and powerful than a mother’s prayer for her child.
Mothers, make the most of this role that is exclusively yours, and for which even the heavens send angels to take care of you and your children. You are carrying out work of great importance and for this you will be exalted, rewarded and become stronger and more capable than you have ever been. If you are undertaking this courageous task alone, without your husband present, know that your prayers have even greater power. Rest assured that with faith, everything will be restored, because of you. I can say that nothing in this world is more meaningful than being so intimately involved in the work and glory of God.
May you be inspired to express your gratitude, just as John did: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). I pray for this, with all sincerity, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
“The love of a true mother is more like the love of God than any other kind of love.”
Joseph Fielding Smith
