Influential Moms
The word “Influence” can be defined as “the power to shape behavior, character, or events.” When it comes to influencing in the household, there is no question that the the mother is most often the biggest influencer. In the Bible there are several mothers featured whose faith, actions, and resilience shaped history, leadership and religious lineages.
In the Beginning, there is the first mother, Eve, the mother of all living. As the first woman and mother she made choices that radically shaped the Biblical story dealing with human nature, temptation, and the promise of future redemption.
Second, we come across the mother of all nations, Sarah. She was the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac. Despite her advanced age and long-standing infertility, God fulfilled His promise to her. Through her promised son, Isaac, she became the matriarch of the nation of Israel and the lineage leading to Jesus.
Third, we find the mother of Moses, Jochebed. Facing Pharaoh’s decree to execute newborn Hebrew boys, two years old and younger, her courage led her to hide her son Moses in a basket on the Nile River. That act of defiance preserved Israel’s future deliverer, and she raised three of Israel’s most foundational leaders.
Fourth, there was the mother of Samuel, Hannah. Deeply sorrowful over her inability to have children, Hannah prayed fervently at the Tabernacle and promised to dedicate her child to God’s service. She gave birth to Samuel, who became one of Israel’s greatest Prophets. Her prayer of praise found in 1 Samuel 2 heavily mirrors Mary’s Magnificat prayerful song.
Finally, we come to who is considered the greatest of all mothers, Mary, the mother of Jesus. Chosen by God to give birth to and raise Jesus Christ. She demonstrated profound obedience and faith when she accepted her role as a young virgin. She birthed and nurtured Jesus, stood by Him during His crucifixion, and remained a vital pillar of the early Christian church.
As human beings we all tend to recognize and lift up someone who serves as a strong influence in our lives. That’s why, while watching a ballgame on TV, and the camera zeros-in on a fan in the crowd, you often see the person wave and say, “Hi Mom!” In this world in which we are living, “Mom” is often the greatest influence in any given person’s life. To all you mothers out there here is a final thought to allow to percolate. . . since mothers are some of the greatest influencers on the planet, it begs the question concerning how others are being influenced by you. Is it positive, Godly influence others are receiving by being in your presence? If you want it to be, it certainly can be. . . and the dividends? Well, let’s just say “they can be eternal.” Never underestimate the power of an “influential Mom.”