Through a Mother's Eyes

[Kajenloca]

 

 

 

For the outside world to view me at this moment, two questions might come to mind. Had I, A) had a freak accident involving a watermelon or B) was I extremely “with child?”  I also found myself questioning whether it was truly just a baby inside me, as I hoisted my enlarged body into the old pick-up truck. My husband sat to my left, a smile on his face as he patted my swollen belly. On this hot, summer day, the two of us were off on a journey.

The farm-truck we rode in was not only old, but had absolutely no redeeming qualities—no shocks—no airconditioning—no muffler. The only thing it did have was space to put all the baby furniture we needed before we could welcome our firstborn into the world. I tried to adjust the pillow behind me to give some kind of cushion from the protruding springs leaving permanent indentations. The truck jostled with earthquake-like force. Every bump felt like a personal attack, perpetrated by my husband against me in my delicate condition. If looks could kill, the man next to me should be keeling over at any moment…

Ironically, this is the memory that came to mind as I was preparing for this upcoming Christmas season. I have heard the Christmas story countless times. It is a beautiful and poignant tale, sometimes feeling almost “fairytailish” with angels and kings and a radiant star. This particular memory, however, has given me a deeper look at the Christmas story…through a mother’s eyes.

Everything about Mary’s journey toward motherhood was out of the ordinary. She didn’t have the chance to make future plans of a family with a husband. She didn’t take a “home-test” that told her she was pregnant—it was an angel who made the announcement. She was a young girl, chosen to carry a miracle in her womb—the son of God! I am not so sure if I had walked in Mary’s sandals I would have graciously responded, "I am the Lord's servant…May it be to me as you have said.”

But no where does it say that just because Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit that she became “un-human”. She didn’t suddenly possess super powers that made her immune to the emotions and physical ailments of a pregnant woman. I look back at driving in that old pick-up truck and wonder what Mary’s demeanor would have been riding on a donkey all the way to Bethlehem. Did she give Joseph “looks that kill” every time her swollen body was assaulted by the harsh travel? Did she have strange cravings that demanded to be fed? Yes, Joseph, I realize it is 2:00 in the morning, but pickled-leg-of- lamb sounds really good! Did she roll her eyes with dismay at the choice of birthing quarters? Holy or not, she was pregnant!

I envision the time leading to the birth of Jesus. Mary filled with a wide range of emotions from fear and nervous anticipation… Lord, are you sure I am the right one to mother this child? To hopeful longing to fulfill her newly appointed role. All of those overwhelming feelings a mother-to-be experiences…we mothers have been there too. And then the moment when Mary heard the first precious cry of her newborn. The joy in that stable surely glowed as brightly as the blessed star in the sky!

I hope each of you can fully experience the true meaning of Christmas this year! May you see it through a mother’s eyes…and feel called to say “ I am the Lord’s servant…May it be to me as you have said.” Remember, God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus, but He also handpicked you—the mother of your own beloved children.

God bless you and yours this holy season!

Kim

[Wrtngfantasymom]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 9:24 AM

oh Kim that was beautiful! You know I have wondered that too!! Wondered, what would I have said if an angel told me I was carrying God's son? laughed in her face possibly! LOL

There's a great song i love listening to about this time of year, "Breath of Heaven" by Amy Grant. it's beautiful. It's sung from Mary's point of view, and Amy sings is with such passion and force, you believe that mary thinks the exact things as the lyrics.

[kennagurls]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 10:37 AM

that was wonderful !

[burkemom]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 11:28 AM

Beautiful!  Many blessings to you and your family.  Merry Christmas.

[lissa027]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 12:31 PM

i enjoyed reading that thank you for inspiring me for the day...

[etexmom]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 12:45 PM

A blessed story, indeed!

Thanks for reminding of this, Kim.  Our Lord's miracle birth REALLY is the reason for this season!

[Lb128f]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 2:06 PM

Amen! Thank you for the reminder that CHRISTmas is such a wonderful time of the year...we have much to be thankful for...;-)!

[cleanaturalady]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 3:22 PM

One of my favorite Christmas songs is Mary did You Know.  I often wonder what it was like for her, knowing that she was the mother of Jesus.  Yet her life was so -normal too.  It is quite extraordinary, actually.

[beanielips]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 10:04 PM

That was beautifully written.  We often forget just how REAL Mary's pregnancy and giving birth was.  It wasn't at all the way we see it during the Christmas pagent.

[treece]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 11:02 PM

Kim that was such a wonderful comparison to make us think of that grueling journey that she had to make in her condition. You put a special touch on my Christmas thoughts today, Thank you. You are a wonderful writer.

[Starfire73]

Dec. 14, 2009 at 1:41 PM

Beautiful girl!!!!