I watched the pair from the back row—Mama and child. The toddler longed for Mama’s undivided attention during worship and her mom wanted to raise her hands and sing to the Lord.

After a song or two, the toddler plopped in the seat behind her mom. When Mama raised her hand in worship, the toddler raised hers. I knew Mama was tired like many young moms, but even though it could have been a bigger struggle, she worshipped anyway.

And as that little girl grows older, who will she emulate? Mama.

 The way she dresses. How she does her hair. Her jokes and humor. The things that make her angry. And the causes that stir up passion.

How often she prays. The way she worships. And how often she reads the bible.

Our kids are watching. They are learning how to function in the world. Who to befriend. What success really means.

When they are grown and out on their own and others comment, “Like Mama, like daughter,” will we beam with honor, or will we cringe in regret?

This worshipping mom is on the right track. Are you?