Inauguration Day

In the midst of all the excitement of snow, today was also the inauguration of our new President Barack Obama. It was a very historic day as we watched the very first African American take the oath of office. I know some people don't always agree with his views, beliefs, etc. but I am encouraged in knowing that God is still in total control.

Since I know that many of you are moms like me, I wanted to share with you a letter written to Michelle Obama. It was written by Jean Stockdale who is the leader of the MOMS Bible Study at Bellevue Baptist. She is a Christian author of bible studies for moms, a women's conference and retreat speaker, and a Bible teacher. I had the honor of participating in her bible study Proverbs and Principles for Parenting Practically Perfect Progeny at our church this past summer. Jean is an awesome lady so check out her letter to Michelle Obama:

Dear Michelle

This letter carries a commitment to pray for you and your family as you prepare to take up residence in the White House. I can only imagine the dramatic changes you are facing. As the First Family, you are about to move into a "glass house." The glare of the spotlight will be intense.

Right or wrong, your family life will be put under the microscope of public opinion. While your girls did not ask for the scrutiny that will accompany their father's presidency, there is no denying that they will feel the effects of it. So what's a mom to do?

I would like to offer you some advice in the fine art of Christian mothering from the Book of Proverbs and from one mom's heart to another.

First, honor your husband. Be loving and supportive to him. Prov. 31:11 says, "The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life. (NASV)"

Your husband always needs to know you are in his corner, but he will especially need your support during the demanding days of his administration. And your girls need the security of knowing that although much in their lives has changed, your love for their daddy has not.

Second, cherish your children. Demonstrate a Godly example for your children because our examples impact them most. Live an uncompromising lifestyle before them.

Prov. 31:25-27 says, "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household."

Finally, your greatest legacy in the lives of your children will be the Godly influence of your love for the Lord Jesus Christ. "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised (Prov. 31:30)."

As our next "Mother-in-Chief," I pray the Lord blesses and keeps you. In closing, may "The Lord make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace. (Num. 6:24-26)"

Jean Stockdale, Fayette County

Check it out on Jean's blog:
http://jeanstockdale.typepad.com/jean_stockdale_/2009/01/an-open-letter-to-michelle-obama-1.html