This Mother’s Day tribute focuses on four mothers. These four mothers aren’t necessarily who we immediately think of when we talk about motherhood, but I believe we can learn from them. So, as you read their stories, I hope you will see yourselves reflected in these mothers because motherhood, in some aspect, is a universally shared experience.

Eve | Genesis 4:1-2

The first mother I would like to talk about is Eve. Eve has a special place in history because she is the first person to be called a mother.

Before Eve, motherhood did not exist. As such, Eve could not ask other mothers for advice. There were no first-time mom support groups, YouTube videos, websites, blogs, vlogs, podcasts, forums, pediatricians, or parenting magazines. Eve had to navigate the world of motherhood without any guide, prior knowledge, or passed-down experiences.

At one point, every mother was a first-time mom, so more likely than not, you understand how Eve felt because you have probably felt the same way. You have gone through the confusion of not knowing what your babies’ cries mean. Are they hungry? Are they in pain? Are they sleepy? Are they teething? Are they sad? You have probably said to yourselves a million times, “I’ve tried this; I’ve tried that; I don’t know what else to do.”

First-time moms, welcome to motherhood. Please know that you are doing a wonderful job even if you lack experience. Every mom began where you are, and believe me, regardless of their experience, they sometimes scratch their heads in confusion because no two children are the same. And remember, you now have way more resources than Eve ever had to help you navigate motherhood, so use them when necessary!

First-time moms, congratulations on becoming mothers!

Unnamed Mother—II Kings 4:1-7

The second mother I would like to talk about isn’t specifically named in Scripture but her acts are recorded. This mother had two sons, and after her husband died, life became a struggle for her family because her husband had left them in debt.

The debt collectors came and demanded payment, but she was unable to pay them; therefore, the debt collectors threatened to enslave her sons. However, this mother was not about to let that happen. No one was going to hurt her children—no one was going to enslave them.

This unnamed mother didn’t have much, but what she lacked in resources, she made up for with her faith, courage, protectiveness, and fighting spirit. Ultimately, with help from Elisha, this mom was able to pay off her husband’s debt, save her sons from slavery, and live comfortably.

Like this unnamed mother, there are many mothers who will do whatever is necessary to protect their children, and because they are expected to do this, they may not get the recognition or the gratitude they deserve, but please know that your effort is appreciated. We, your sons and daughters, realize that we are who we are because of what you do for us. We are who we are because of your sacrifices.

Thank you!

Rizpah—II Samuel 21:1-7 | 3:7

The third mother I would like to talk about is Rizpah. Rizpah’s two sons were executed for the crimes that King Saul their father had committed, and sadly, there was nothing that this mother could do to save her children’s lives; nevertheless, she tried in her own way to still protect them.

When Rizpah heard that her sons were going to be executed and she realized that there was nothing she could do to prevent their deaths, she probably thought to herself, “I can’t save them from dying, but I can at least protect their bodies.” And this is exactly what she did. She went to the place where her sons were executed, spread sackcloth, and stayed there the entire harvest season—which lasted from spring to fall.

Rizpah worked tirelessly to prevent the scavenger birds from tearing at her children’s bodies during the day and stopped wild animals from eating them at night. She didn’t even consider the danger to herself. The thought of being outside for days, weeks, and months in the sun, wind, and rain would have deterred many, but not Rizpah. She was determined to protect her children’s bodies. Consequently, she endured the elements, thirst, sleep deprivation, hunger, exhaustion, grief, you name it to make sure that her children’s bodies were not desecrated. David heard what Rizpah had done. As a result, he gathered her sons’ bones, along with Saul and Jonathan’s, and gave them proper burials. Rizpah protected her children to the very end.

Rizpah’s actions beg the question: Is there anything that mothers cannot do for their children? I don’t think so!

Mothers, many of you can understand Rizpah’s undying love for her children. You have also been in situations where you have felt helpless towards your children, but somehow you still managed to help them. That help may have been saying one last prayer, giving a warning for the hundredth time, pleading with your children to listen, you name it. Please know that your love, concern, and dedication are appreciated.

Thank you!

The Proverbs 31 Mother

The fourth mother I would like to talk about is also not given a name in Scripture; nevertheless, she is a wife, a mother, and a businesswoman. She is your typical mom—always busy. She governs her household with great care, gets up early, prepares meals, clothes her family, helps those in need, goes to work, earns money, and encourages those around her. This mother is quite admirable, and after reading about her, it makes one wonder how does she accomplish all that she does? But then again, she is a mother, and mothers are extraordinary. They can balance and keep track of a million things.

Mothers, if superheroes exist, you are the superheroes. You go above and beyond to ensure that your children are taken care of. You have a million and one things to do, but still, you find time to help your children with homework, pray for them, attend school events, you name them. Being a mother can also be quite tiring, but no one would ever know that because you approach motherhood with such grace and diligence.

Mothers thank you for your hard work. You should be appreciated every day and not just on Mother’s Day, but since Sunday is Mother’s Day, I take this opportunity to say thank you for all that you do and to wish you a wonderful and happy Mother’s day. God Bless you!