When we turn our attention to Jesus’ parents, the record gives slim but very remarkable evidence.

Joseph is called a “righteous” man, and one who did not seek to have his fiancé punished for her alleged social crime of having an affair. We admire his love for Mary that rose above any thought of revenge. Until the angel explained the truth, he planned to terminate the engagement privately.

We see that both he and Mary presented Jesus in the temple according to the Old Testament teaching (Leviticus 12:1-8). It is worthy of note that Mary attended this ceremony—as mothers were not required to attend.

Mary is noted as the one who spent time meditating on the prophecy of Simeon in the temple. She is the one who spoke to Jesus 12 years later—when they were in Jerusalem. Jesus was temporarily “lost”, and once found in the temple it was Mary who spoke to Him of the grief His action had caused them.

It is Mary who is recorded as the parent who “treasured” everything in her heart.

More is recorded about how godly Mary was, but my space is limited. We do not worship Mary—but we do recognize her extraordinarily godly life.

Let us be thankful for the godly mothers throughout history who, like Mary, Suzannah Wesley (mother of John and Charles Wesley), Elisabeth Elliot—and countless others—who have gifted Christianity with outstanding leaders—and been leaders in their own right.

May their tribe increase.