Motherhood, Grace and God: Finding Beauty in the Chaos

May 11

Let me start by saying this. If you’ve ever tripped over a toy while holding a toddler and a load of laundry, cried while rocking a baby at 3 a.m., or looked in the mirror and wondered if you’re getting anything right... I see you. I’ve been there. And I want to remind you of something incredibly important: God is in the middle of all the chaos.

Motherhood is holy ground, even when it doesn’t feel like it. It’s loud, it’s beautiful, it’s chaotic, and it’s sacred. The love of a mother, in all its forms, reflects the very heart of God. Whether it’s your mom, your grandma, a beloved aunt, mentor, teacher, or friend, God uses the women in our lives to shape us, guide us, and gently mold our hearts in ways we may not even realize at the time. They show us what it looks like to show up, love deeply, and give without expectation. You don’t have to give birth to give life.

Why We Celebrate the Women Who Raised Us

At its core, Mother’s Day is really about gratitude. It’s that moment when we pause, just for a beat, and reflect on all the little (and big) things we might have overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a time to ask ourselves, “How did she do it all?” and truly recognize the love, sacrifice, and strength that often went unnoticed at the time. Gratitude isn’t just for the obvious things, like the warm hugs, the words of encouragement, or the way she celebrated our victories, but for the quiet, behind-the-scenes moments that were so essential. The sleepless nights spent soothing us, the silent prayers whispered for our safety and well-being, and the way she loved us fiercely even when she was running on empty. It’s about honoring the women who showed up for us time and time again, in ways both big and small, often without any recognition. Whether she was our mom, stepmom, grandma, aunt, or a friend who stepped into that role, these women shaped us in ways we can’t always see in the moment. As Proverbs 31:31 states: “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.”

But I also know this: for some, Mother’s Day brings a different kind of ache.

For five long years, I lived in that space. Years marked not by milestones, but by mourning.
First, a miscarriage.
Then, a devastating diagnosis—a neural tube defect called anencephaly.
And then, an ectopic pregnancy that ended before it even had the chance to begin.
Each loss carved a deeper ache. Each year, Mother’s Day felt like a spotlight on my empty arms.

To every woman who has walked this road, whether you’ve battled infertility, endured miscarriage, lost a child, or carried a hope that never came to be, this day is for you. I see you. I grieve with you. And I honor you.

God is Present in the Beautiful Mess

Here’s what I’ve learned in my own journey as a mom: God isn’t waiting for us to get it all together before He shows up. He’s already there, right in the middle of the spilled juice, the missed naps, the teenage drama, and the carpool chaos. He’s present.

We don’t need a Pinterest-perfect life to experience His presence. Sometimes, God’s whisper comes in the form of a sticky hand on your face and a little voice saying, “I love you, Mommy.” Other times, it comes in the silence after a long day, when you finally get a moment to breathe and remember you’re not alone.

I’ve found Him in the quiet moments and the loud ones. In the victories and the valleys. And I’ve realized that even when I feel like I’m falling short, He’s filling in the gaps. His grace is more than enough to cover every missed moment and every mothering mishap.

Motherhood: The Original Masterclass in Leadership

Let’s be honest. Motherhood is the greatest leadership training ground there is.

You’re teaching, guiding, comforting, problem-solving, praying, and peacemaking, sometimes all before breakfast. And through it all, your children (and even those around you) are learning what it means to love sacrificially, to persevere, and to trust in something greater than themselves.

Our maternal figures are often our first glimpse of unconditional love. They give us the courage to take on the world and the wisdom to do it with humility. They remind us that it’s okay to cry, to get back up, and to start again. And when that kind of love has blessed us, we’re equipped to extend it to others.

So this Mother’s Day, let’s remember...

That the chaos is beautiful, and that the work is holy. That you are seen, loved, and held by the people around you, and by a God who never stops showing up. Whether you're a mom yourself, honoring a woman who’s mothered you, or grieving the loss of someone dear, this day is for you. It’s a celebration of motherhood's strength, tenderness, and spiritual impact. And what better way to honor the women who’ve shaped our lives than with a thoughtful gift that reflects how much they mean to us? Consider giving a personalized piece of jewelry with the initials of her children, a letter expressing your deepest gratitude, or perhaps a day of relaxation with a self-care gift box filled with her favorite treats and pampering essentials. A family photo session, a special playlist, a small potted plant, or a homemade meal can also create lasting memories to cherish for years to come. Whatever it is, make sure it’s a reflection of the love and appreciation she’s so freely given.

So let’s gather our families close. Let’s share stories and make new memories. Let’s thank the women who’ve shaped us, and let’s offer grace to the ones who are still figuring it out (that includes us, too!).

Because in the beautiful chaos of motherhood, we find God, not in perfection, but in presence.

With love and deep gratitude,