Looking back on my childhood, I recall my mother's making the best chocolate cake, repeatedly beating me at jacks, and reading to me from the big Bible, only she could lift. However, I also remember my mother being old-fashioned and definitely behind the times. I was the only girl in high school, or so it seemed, that had to wear long dresses during the mini skirt era. My mother filled the house with rules, moral ethics, and numerous idiosyncrasies. My goal in life was to make my own decisions and leave those old-fashioned habits behind.

Someone has said that since God could not be everywhere, he gave us mothers. Of course, God is everywhere, and many of us see Him especially in our mothers. There is no other earthly love like "mother love," and it seems as if God has ordained it to give us some illustrations of His own infinite love. "As one who his mother comforted, so will I comfort you," declares Isaiah 66:13. In Psalm 27:10, David recognizes the love of God as he writes, "When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up."

The Bible records examples of God-fearing mothers who significantly affected their children. Because of her deep spirituality (1 Samuel 2:1-10), Hannah became the mother of Samuel, the great prophet of Israel. Eunice, the mother of Timothy, taught him the Old Testament scriptures (2 Timothy 3:15). Luke, alone, tells the story of Elizabeth who, in her old age (Luke 1:7), rejoiced over the birth of her son John. Mary, who found favor with God, brought forth a son and called him Jesus (Luke 1:30-31). These mothers, in all probability, did not realize the everlasting results of their obedience to God. Mothers, in general, underestimate the strength and influence they convey to their children.

As I grow older, I am suddenly realizing, by my words and actions, I am turning into my mother! Those habits, moral ethics, and regulations, given with love and compassion, have greatly influenced my life. It is heartwarming to know I have inherited some of those traits.

Without the encouragement and devotion of my mother, I would never have undertaken many of the opportunities presented to me in this lifetime. May all of us who were brought up by wonderful Christian mothers remain increasingly grateful for the role they have played in our lives.

Whether we walk, talk, act, or look like our Godly mothers, may we never regret saying, "I am turning into my mother." -Rt. 1, Box 109-A, Rivesville, WV 26588.

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