Imitators of Christ

Mother’s Day is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the women who have nurtured and shaped our lives. As we honor mothers this weekend, we’re reminded of the incredible influence they have, not just through their words but through their example.

Children are natural imitators. From their first steps to their first words, they look to us to learn how to live. I remember as a young girl pulling up a wobbly chair to the counter in our 1970s rust and yellow kitchen to watch and learn from my mom as she baked. I would get my own (empty) bowl and stir and pretend right alongside her, mimicking her every move. I still make some of those recipes today for my own children. And in turn, my curly haired girl often sat on the counter beside me when she was younger and did the same as I had done.

Paul writes in Ephesians 5:1-2, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” As mothers, and parents or guardians in general, we are called to imitate Christ so that our children may, in turn, imitate us.

This is both a high calling and a humbling one. It means the way we love, forgive, speak, and serve others matters deeply. Our children are watching us and learning along the way. When a child sees her mother kneeling in prayer, or offering grace in a hard moment, she’s being introduced to the heart of Christ.

Paul also encourages believers in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” That’s a bold statement. Maybe even a little intimidating. But it reflects a life deeply rooted in following Jesus. Paul was just a broken human, like you and me, filled with the Spirit and living on mission. We don’t need to be perfect. We all know from TDC that there are, in fact, No Perfect People. Being a mom is hard, and we are going to fail our children at times. But the good news is that Christ’s grace has covered those failures. When we trust in Jesus, His death and resurrection cover every sin and shortcoming. He frees us from guilt and shame. What matters is a life pointed toward Him, lived with authenticity and love. Our children don’t need flawless examples—they need real ones. They need to see repentance, humility, and JOY in the journey of following Jesus. Moms, your quiet faithfulness is one of the most powerful discipleship tools your children will ever see.

So today, we thank God for the mothers, and spiritual mothers, in our lives. We see when your daily rhythms reflect Jesus. Your life speaks louder than you know.

May we all strive to live in such a way that our children, and all who watch us, see Jesus clearly.

Happy Mother’s Day, friends!

Christ is all,

Jacci Mullican