Mothers: A Symbol of the Savior

I have been thinking about how mothers are intended to be types of Savior since I read a scripture for Sunday School in Moses 6:59. I figured, however, there was no need to rewrite my thoughts when they've been captured just fine in this article I found written by somebody else! Enjoy. 

We are taught that as mothers, we are “partners” with Christ. We offer ourselves as vehicles through which spirits can come to earth. But perhaps we are more than just “partners” with Him.  Take a look at Moses 6:59:

“As ye were born into the world by water, and blood, and the spirit...even so ye must be born again into the kingdom of heaven, of water, and of the Spirit, and be cleansed by blood, even the blood of mine Only Begotten.”

Isn’t that stunning? Physical birth (from a mother) is symbolic of spiritual re-birth that will take place later in life (from Christ). So, as mothers, not only are we partners with Christ--

We are symbols of Christ. 

We offer our physical bodies in pregnancy and childbirth to provide life for our children. Jesus Christ offered His physical body in death, to provide life for God’s children. And both involve water, blood, and the Spirit.

But it doesn’t stop there. A mother’s offering does not begin or end with her body. Yes, a mother offers her body through sleepless nights, weary arms, a well-worn lap, an aching back, and a listening ear. But what a mother offers most is her heart. Her entire soul. And isn’t that what Jesus Christ has offered us as well? Just as we see it symbolized in motherhood, He offers us His body, and His heart and soul.

So I ask, how does this knowledge--that we are symbols of Christ--change the way we view motherhood? Does it change the way I see myself or my children? Should it? And what is the meaning of it all? Why has He chosen to use mothers in this beautifully symbolic way? 

I think it means He thinks we’re pretty special. 

I think it means that mothering should be reverenced and protected.

I think it means that by daily nurturing, loving, teaching, and sacrificing for my children, not only am I coming to know more about Him, I am coming to be more like Him. 

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

http://tofw.com/Mother-Symbol-Savior-Whitney-Permann%20of%20Mercy%20River/s/498