Mother’s Day is approaching which makes me reflect on the impact mothers often have on their children’s faith. So I pose the question:  “How did your mother influence your religious development?” My mother was baptized as a Roman Catholic, but received almost no instruction in that faith. She became a Lutheran in her 20s so most of her understanding developed as an adult. She didn’t have the experience of having to unlearn what she learned as a child in order to have a mature faith.

As far back as I can remember, I was aware of my mother’s unusual development in the Christian faith which made me pay attention to the many adults in my life who helped form my faith. It has also made me anxious about the influence I might have on others.

One of the most famous mothers in Christian history (besides, of course, Mary) was Monica, the mother of Augustine. Monica’s husband, Patricius, was a Roman official in Tragaste, North Africa. A pagan, he refused to allow his son Augustine to be baptized. Despite Monica’s prayers and pleading, Augustine developed into a wayward youth. His mother would not give up on him so she followed him as he moved to Rome and the Milan. Augustine was moved by Monica’s devotion, especially her support for the poor. With the further influence of Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, Augustine became a Christian and was baptized. Monica died a few months later as they were preparing to return to Africa.

It amazes me what a mother’s devotion can accomplish.

Read Ephesians 6:2-3 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne