By Pastor Dennis Morales

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 1 Timothy 1:5

When the great painter Benjamin West was a young boy, he decided to draw a picture of his sister. He got out bottles of ink and succeeded in making a mess. When his mother got home, she said, “What a beautiful picture,” and kissed him. Later in life he said, “That kiss made me a painter.”

Paul writes to his protégé, Timothy, encouraging him as a pastor and faith leader. In doing so, he acknowledges the influence of his grandmother and mother upon his faith. I love how Paul speaks of “sincere faith.” The greatest and lasting influence of Timothy’s mom and grandmother was their sincere faith. It wasn’t forced, it wasn’t showy, it was pure. Timothy saw faith through their hardships, and even through the supposed unbelief of his father. Timothy saw it was real because his mom and grandmother knew Jesus was alive and real in their lives.

If, as a mom, you are feeling underwhelmed with how you have been handling your role, or feeling as if you’re not making a difference, remember your kids are being shaped by the Lord. So, keep praying for them and never give up praying. My mom never stopped praying for me, despite my fierce rebellion, and I am eternally grateful for her diligence. Moms don’t underestimate your influence in this world starting with those whom God has put in your care. Your faithfulness to the Lord, strength, courage, and unconditional love all have good and eternal consequences. You have every reason to be confident because God is using you. (Your impact is greater than you may see right now). Your kiss (of sincere faith) has the potential to make soon to be men and women, men and women of great faith. So, Mama-bears assemble! (A little Marvel humor, sorry). Scripture says “her children will rise up and bless her…” (Proverbs 31).

Calvary Chapel meets at Eastvale Elementary School. Sunday service times are 8:30 and 10:30am. Calvary Chapel Eastvale is moving to the Eastvale Community Center starting July 2, 2023. More details to come. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.