Motherhood and Surrender
Author: Shannon Santiago
February 02, 2023
If you see the mom who straps her young son over her shoulder leaving church every Saturday night, that's me.
I think every mother can agree that it is truly a gift, a privilege, and honor to walk in the calling and journey of motherhood. There is not a day that goes by that I don't look at my son and marvel at the Lord's grace and His goodness to see me fit to raise and parent this child. I cling to the truth that this child was given to me for a specific reason and purpose that the Lord sees in His grand and perfect design.
However, any mother will tell you that for every good day, there is a tough day. A day where your patience is failing you. When the second (third? fourth?) cup of coffee seems to be the only grip of strength you can cling to, even if it's lukewarm.
So how do we hold fast to the promise and blessing of motherhood when we are plagued with comparison, self-doubt, and even in the depths of resentment for the task at hand. Of course, the right answer is: Jesus. But, can I be honest? Even if it is the right answer, what can I apply to my mindset and outlook on days like today, when I nearly broke down crying in a restaurant with my toddler.
Well, Jesus invites us to go to him "..all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for you souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Sometimes I read this verse and just imagine a simple exchanging or trading of goods. Like a big family dinner with plates and food being passed around the table. Pass the light burden, please! Even though I believe the Lord wants to release our burdens from us simply and swiftly, it is important to remember that even with this beautiful gift it requires surrender on our end. Surrendering to the Lord the hard moments. Surrendering your will, your pride, your expectations for this child and your motherhood journey. Releasing the clenched grip, even when it feels so much safer to muscle through in your own strength.
However, can I remind you, (since this is something I'm sure you know) that any time you muscle through in your own strength, you will get burned out. You will be depleted and you'll look back in weariness and think: "I wasted so much time not giving this to the Lord."
God wants to take the burden from you. He's invited you to sit at the table, to pass over your fears, anxieties, and even, your child. Submitting your burdens on the Lord actually requires trust that in His capable hands He will work things out for our good.
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