Spiritual DNA

“I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you” (2 Timothy 1:5; NLT).

Mothers are hard-wired by God to develop a close, personal bond with their children. Childbirth is a transformational experience. Motherhood can turn a timid young woman into a fierce warrior whenever anyone or anything threatens to harm her child. While Dad is handy to have around, Mom is truly indispensable. She bandages hearts as well as knees. She builds character as well as sandcastles. She dries tears as well as clothes. She feeds souls as well as stomachs. She, perhaps more than any other, understands the meaning of sacrifice. She continually gives of her time, her energy, and her resources -- even if her own reserves are depleted -- because she wants the best for her children. Do you know a mom like that?

Lois and Eunice must have been those kind of mothers. Timothy was blessed to grow up in their loving care. Out of all they had shared with him over the years, one special gift stands out. They planted seeds of faith in his young heart and then nurtured that faith as it grew. While Timothy shared physical DNA with these women, it was the spiritual DNA that ran through this family that impressed Paul. It is possible that Timothy physically looked like his mother and grandmother. But it was the spiritual resemblance that caught the apostle’s eye.

Moms (and grandmoms), let me encourage you to remember that the greatest gift you can share with your own children is your faith. Other gifts can be good and important, but this is pre-eminent. May others look at your children’s faith and say, “You know, you look just like your mother (or grandmother)!” There is no better time to start than now. Begin today to leave a legacy of faith in the generations that follow after you.

God loves you!
Mike