Watching a television show on genealogy recently, I heard this phrase:  “Be the answer to your ancestor’s prayers.”  It caught my attention, first because it seemed unlike our typical reminder to do as Jesus would have us do.  Yet after thinking about it, I wondered if there was valid point being made.  Now I suppose it depends on your ancestors;  who they were and what they believed, and what their hopes for you might have been.

Personally I found it relevant.  One grandmother left Germany alone at sixteen, her rosary in her pocket, looking to be a servant girl in Connecticut.  Through early widowhood, a less than ideal second marriage, and seven children, she never lost her faith.  Her children were baptized and went to church.  I believe that her prayers for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren would include that they keep the faith that she so bravely brought from her homeland. 

A grandfather left Saxony at five with his mother and siblings.  Bringing just one trunk, they came to meet their father and oldest brother who were already in Connecticut working.  Life was not easy, but there were mills; men and boys soon were employed bringing home wages to support a family.  Family was of prime importance and his children carried on this thinking.  In my last visit with him as he lay in the hospital, he gave me this advice.  “Find a good man and start a good family.”  Well Grandpa, I did as you said.

In some cases our ancestors provide a work ethic that is admirable.  In others it may be a loving heart that reached out to one and all.  It may be a special talent that they used to the fullest, in hopes that their children would also utilize whatever talents they were given.   In many cases, we can indeed do well to “Be the answer to our ancestor’s prayers.”

May the God who loves you unconditionally guide you follow in His Way.

Judy