Is motherhood a higher calling?

Biblically speaking, motherhood is a blessing, as it was God's wish for us to be fruitful and multiply. Children are also a blessing, as demonstrated when Jesus instructed the people to "let the children come to me." There are many, many, passages in the Bible that reinforce this, but nowhere do I see that it is a higher calling.

Then why are we told that it is a higher calling? Is it because we have chosen to deny ourselves of certain things? Is it a reaction against our society's perception of children as an inconvenience, hindrance or a risky venture? Is it because we see motherhood as a job? Is it because we are seeking our satisfaction through our performance? I don't know.

But what I do know is that it’s not a higher calling. As disciples of Christ, whether or not we are spouses or parents, what higher calling is there than to abide in Christ and to be conformed to His image? Although motherhood is definitely an effective tool that God uses to accomplish that process, it is not the only one. So, regardless of who you are, remember that God has given you all you need to be a holy, useful vessel unto Him (2 Timothy 2:21).

And for you mothers out there, have a great and blessed Mother's day.