A Mother’s Work is Never Done

Have you ever had one of those days when your “to do” list feels so daunting that you want to climb back in bed and hide under the covers? If so, you are not alone because, as the old saying goes, “a mother’s work is never done.”

This Easter season, I am contemplating the difference between "do" and "done." As in, the daily work that we DO to keep our families on a good footing in this world (errands, appointments, chores, etc.) and the work that Jesus has already DONE to assure our good standing in eternity.

When it comes to the work on our to-do lists, there is always another task waiting for our attention. Just as you finish the laundry, you notice the heaping pile of mail and bills that need to be paid. Just as you finish cleaning up after dinner, there are children who need help with their homework. It is relentless. Indeed, a mother’s work is never done.

But when it comes to the assurance of peace in heaven, Jesus did all the excruciating work on the cross and we didn’t have to lift a finger. Isn’t it astounding that the gift of eternal life is so freely available to us? Maybe that is why it is hard to accept that gift. We feel like we don’t deserve it because we didn’t shop for it, prepare it, or clean up after it.

Another aspect of Jesus’ work of salvation that is amazing to me is the fact that it is a “one and done” situation. The tasks on our to-do lists repeat themselves in a vicious cycle. It feels like we just finish cleaning up after one meal and then it is time to start prepping the next one. We finish all the laundry and then the hamper fills up again. It can be demoralizing.

But when Jesus said, “It is finished” on the cross, He meant it. The work of salvation was completed 2,000 years ago with no need to refresh, redo, or renew since then.

So, while it may be true that a mother’s work is never done, the work of salvation has been fully completed by Jesus. How about taking a moment to set aside the to-do list and really relish the work that Jesus has already DONE on your behalf? I’m telling you, it is a joyful experience.