The Homeschool Answer Book with Tricia Goyer

A Mother’s Love: Honoring Adoption Moms on Mother’s Day

Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

I held the baby close, her tiny body tucked into my arms, wrapped in a receiving blanket as the chill of the delivery room clung to the air. A soft voice broke the silence: “Congratulations, Mom.”

It was the baby’s grandmother—the mother of the young birth mom who had just placed her child into our arms through the selfless choice of adoption.

A Mother’s Love
Honoring Adoption Moms on Mother's Day

I will never forget the weight of that moment. Joy. Gratitude. Grief. A holy mix of celebration and sacrifice.

We often think of Mother’s Day as a time for breakfast in bed and handmade cards. But for adoptive mothers—and birth mothers—it is layered with emotion that words can barely contain. This sacred calling is marked by both beauty and loss, love and letting go.

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress…” - James 1:27

As a mom of ten children—three adopted—I can say this with confidence: the love I feel for my adopted children is no different than the love I feel for the ones I birthed. They are mine. And I am theirs.

Yet, on Mother’s Day, my heart holds space for another woman, too—the one who said “yes” to life and “yes” to love, even when it meant letting go.


The Gospel in Adoption

This sacred exchange—joy for one, heartache for another—echoes the heartbeat of the Gospel. Just as Jesus laid down His life to adopt us into God’s family, birth moms make a heart-wrenching sacrifice for the sake of their child’s future.

“God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”
— Ephesians 1:5

Every year on Mother’s Day, I’m reminded that adoption is not second best—it is holy ground. It is a reflection of God’s heart, a glimpse into the deep, sacrificial love that makes us whole.


Five Prayers When Considering Adoption

If adoption has been stirring in your heart, whether you’re at the beginning or in the waiting, here are five simple prayers to guide your journey:

1. “Lord, give me Your heart for children who need a home.”

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” – Psalm 82:3

2. “Father, prepare my heart and home to love as You love.”

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14

3. “Jesus, give me peace as I wait on Your timing.”

“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” – Psalm 37:7

4. “God, strengthen our family for the journey ahead.”

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” – Psalm 29:11

5. “Holy Spirit, fill me with compassion for birth families walking through grief.”

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

A Mother’s Day Blessing

So today, dear adoptive mom, I see you.
Your story is one of redemption.
Your love is brave and resilient.
Your “yes” echoes the Father’s heart.

And if you’re a mom still waiting—know this: God sees your heart, your ache, your hope. He is working in the unseen. His plans are good.

Whether you have already adopted, are considering it, or are walking beside someone who has, let this Mother’s Day be a reminder of the sacred, stunning beauty of laying down your life for the sake of love.

Because love always costs something.
And oh, how it is worth it.

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

homeschooling basics

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners. Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer. Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

 

Devotionals

View All