Jochebed

Do you recall a woman named Jochebed in scripture? I must be honest, I never paid much attention to her name. I noted a part of her story and left her behind to follow her son.

Jochebed, which is a Hebrew name meaning "Yaweh is my glory", is the birth mother of Moses and she is a remarkably courageous woman.

She fought for the life of her child during a time when infant life was in grave danger.

Jochebed recognized that she could not provide Moses with all that he needed to live the life she trusted that the Lord had for him. I would not expect that she would have had any clue what exactly that would come to be.

She chose someone else, a very different person than herself, for the job. She chose an early form of open adoption. Through this, she chose a full life for Moses. She gave a purposeful life to her son whom she loved deeply. Her selflessness opened a door to allow for what would be among the greatest events in Christian history. It led to Israel's rescue. It was a step toward some of the grandest of the Lord's miracles to come before the cross and empty grave. This was a step toward clarity and vision for God's people in gaining the 10 commandments, rituals in purification and atoning sacrifices.

As we adopt children, foster or pray and serve families who have, remember the birth mothers. Remember these women who chose a life for their child when circumstances prevented them from raising these little ones themselves. She was willing to acknowledge that her child's life matters and that she needs help in caring for this life. I am unaware if I know any of these women. I don't know their stories but you may know her. You may be her. I want you to know today that I believe this choice you, or the person in your life, made was very brave and God can do the most remarkable things from it.

Her name was Jochebed.

Reference: The Book of Exodus, Exodus 6:20