JOCHEBED, The Mother of Moses
Jochebed is introduced in Exodus 2:1-10. She is a Hebrew woman from the tribe of Levi, married to a man named Amram. Her children are Aaron, Miriam and Moses.
Once upon a time in ancient Egypt, there lived a loving mother named Jochebed. She was a warm-hearted woman, known for her gentle smile and kind spirit. Jochebed had three children: Miriam, Aaron, and her youngest, a precious baby boy named Moses.
One sunny afternoon, as Jochebed played with her children in their small home, she overheard whispers in the village. The Pharaoh had issued a terrible decree: all Hebrew baby boys were to be taken away. Jochebed's heart sank at the thought of her sweet Moses being in danger. She knew she had to think of a plan to protect him.
With determination in her heart, Jochebed decided to create a special basket for Moses. She gathered soft reeds from the riverbank and worked diligently, weaving them together with love. Miriam watched in awe as her mother sang softly while she worked. "What are you making, Mama?" Miriam asked, her eyes shining with curiosity.
"It's a cozy little boat for your brother," Jochebed replied with a reassuring smile. "It will keep him safe." Once finished, she carefully lined the basket with soft cloth and placed Moses inside, wrapping him snugly. She whispered words of love and protection, knowing this was the way to keep her son safe.
The next morning, Jochebed took Moses to the riverbank. With a heavy heart but a hopeful spirit, she placed the basket in the water, watching as it floated gently among the reeds. "May God watch over you, my sweet boy," she prayed, tears glistening in her eyes.
Miriam, brave and determined, hid nearby to keep watch. As fate would have it, Pharaoh’s daughter came to the river that day. When she saw the basket and opened it, her heart filled with compassion for the beautiful baby inside. Just then, Miriam stepped forward, her heart racing. "Would you like me to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby?" she asked.
Pharaoh's daughter smiled and nodded. "That would be wonderful!" And so, Miriam rushed back to her mother, and Jochebed was able to care for Moses, nurturing him with love while keeping him safe in a time of danger.
Through her bravery and love, Jochebed not only protected her son but also set the stage for a future that would change the world. And as she held Moses close, she knew that love could conquer even the greatest fears.
DISCUSSION STARTERS
How did Jochebed demonstrate courage in the face of danger? What can we learn from her actions when confronted with difficult situations in our own lives?
How did Jochebed’s influence shape Moses' future? What does this teach us about the impact of parents especially mothers on the lives of their children?
How does Jochebed’s story inspire you to reflect on your own legacy? What values or lessons do you wish to pass on to your children?
PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You with grateful hearts, reflecting on the life of Jochebed, a mother of great courage and faith. Thank You for her unwavering love and determination to protect her son, Moses, even in the face of great danger. May her story inspire us to trust in Your guidance and strength when we encounter challenges in our lives.
Help us to embody her spirit of resourcefulness and creativity as we navigate our own trials. Grant us the wisdom to nurture and support those we love, just as Jochebed did. May we have the courage to stand up against injustice and the compassion to care for others in their time of need.
In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.