My mother, Jo Ann, grew up in post-Depression rural Kansas. She was a very sad and frightened little girl. Her family was falling apart, and she felt that she was completely alone. However, we now see the hand of God in her life even at an early age. At the age of five, Jo Ann would walk to school everyday.
Along that route was located her Great Aunt Seennie’s home. Aunt Seennie knew of Jo Ann’s family circumstances, and she always greeted Jo Ann before school and welcomed her inside for lunch. She spent this time introducing Jo Ann to someone she did not know. . . . someone who loved her unconditionally and would never leave her.
Jesus was introduced to my mother’s life during those precious visits. And because of Seennie’s efforts, my family’s lineage has been forever changed. Aunt Seennie simply gave my mother what she could. There were no eloquent prayers or deep theological discussions. Seennie simply taught my mother how to pray directly to her loving Father in Jesus’ name.
I believe that even without Aunt Seennie, my mother would have eventually come to know Jesus, but Seennie also gave my mother love and comfort during a time that she needed it most. To this day, my mother has one of the deepest relationships with Jesus of anyone I have ever known. She still prays the way she was taught – with wonderful, childlike faith.
My prayer is that I will continue Aunt Seennie and Mom’s legacy and simply share Jesus with those who need Him.
Memory Verse:
“Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
-Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Father, thank You for others who have obeyed Your call and have influenced my family forever. Please help me to also seize the opportunities that You put before me. Today, show me where I can be a witness for You. . . .”
Contributing Writer:
Jeannie De La Garza
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