Now, what does the motherhood of God mean to us on this Mother's Day? First, to mothers: God knows what you are going through.

They say in counseling classes never to say to a person, "I know how you're feeling," because we don't. But God does. One reason programs like Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) are so popular and necessary is they give mothers an opportunity to talk with people who know what it's really like. Well, God is the mother of every preschooler and every child. He knows what it's like.

God knows what it is to be rejected by his children. He knows what it is to watch his Son suffer and even die. He knows what it is to love his children beyond words. In fact, the Bible says that God "longs to be gracious to us; he rises to show us compassion" (Isaiah 30:18). He loves your children as much as you do. He grieves when they grieve, and rejoices when they rejoice. He is for you and with you.

What is your greatest challenge as a mother today? You can bring it to God and find his help and hope. God knows what you are going through today.

Second, to those who find Mother's Day a hard day: God is on your side.

If you are waiting and hoping to be a mother, know that God heard Sarah's and Hannah's prayers for a child. He understood their frustration and comforted their pain.

If you do not have a good relationship with your mother, know that God is for you and with you. He forgives and heals. He can bind up the wounds of your heart and give you his peace which passes understanding.

God longs to be gracious to you and rises to show you compassion. Your Father loves you as a mother, unconditionally and forever.

Last, to all of us who are children of mothers: your heavenly Father wants you to honor and respect your earthly mother. His word is clear: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother'--which is the first commandment with a promise--'that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth'" (Ephesians 6:1-3). How will you express your gratitude to your mother today? If she is in heaven, how will you honor her legacy with your life? How will you obey God's word this morning?