I spent more than 20 years in corporate human resources and reviewed more job descriptions than I could count. Those job descriptions were especially useful in determining the best candidate when recruiting.

But there’s one position for which I’m thankful I never had to recruit: the position of a mother. I twitch at the thought of recruiting one person to fill all the duties of a mom. The job description would have to include all the following and more beside:

• accountant
• banker
• chauffeur
• cheerleader
• chef
• coach
• counselor
• decorator
• entertainer
• financial planner
• gardener
• hairstylist
• handyman
• hostess
• housekeeper
• janitor
• juggler
• manager
• nanny
• nurse
• nutritionist
• paramedic
• party planner
• photographer
• referee
• secretary
• spiritual advisor
• storyteller
• teacher
• waitress
• zookeeper

The salary is paltry—actually, less than paltry. It’s zero. There’s no advancement. Vacation days are nil, unless you count the second Sunday in May, but even then you’re on duty.

So why would anyone take on such a position? By any logical standard, it’s an insane proposition. But logic has nothing to do with it. One heartfelt kiss, one enthusiastic hug, one spontaneous “I love you, Mommy!” is all you need to be assured it’s worth it.

Every moment.

Every diaper.

Every skinned knee.

Every disobeyed curfew.

Every tear.

Every smile.

Every sigh.

Every. Moment.

So consider this a shout out to every mom fulfilling an impossible job description by the grace of God. Consider this a thank you for every mom who did her best and wishes she had done better. To every mom who is doing her best and wondering how to do better. You’re giving yourself…there is no better. You’ve been entrusted with a precious life…and there’s nothing more valuable.

You’re raising children who will be doctors and lawyers and plumbers and electricians. Future florists and administrators and firefighters and law enforcement officers. Future teachers and social workers and athletes and decorators. Future janitors and zookeepers and hairstylists and photographers.

Future dads and future moms.

Most important of all, you have the opportunity to raise children to know and trust the Lord as their Creator, Savior, and Lord. Their Refuge, Guide, and Strength. Their Hope, Help, and Provider. You gave them earthly life and you have the privilege of leading them to receive eternal life.

Thank you to every mom in every family in every home.

Happy Mother’s Day!

What other duties can you add to a mom’s job description?