1 QUOTE

“Henrietta Mears is a fulfillment of God’s promise to her parents, “May it go well with you, and with your children after you (Deuteronomy 4:40).”

-Barbara Hudson Powers

1 NOTE

Henrietta Mears was one of the most faithful and fruitful disciples of the last 100 years. More than a few of Christianity’s most recognized leaders in the 20th century were recruited, trained and sent out into ministry by Henrietta Mears. At the end of our reflections on Miss Mears’ life and ministry we will take a close look at her fruit. Her life and ministry were filled with a special sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, three destiny promises and the Lord brought to completion. two power-gate experiences, and one incredible set of parents. But the story begins generations before Mr. and Mrs. Mears. Henrietta’s grandparents (three generations deep) were the launching pad for her remarkable ministry. The ‘spiritual mantle’ was truly handed down from one generation to the next.

Barbara Powers recounts Henrietta’s reflections on the role her maternal grandfather had on her faith. Henrietta was in Dallas, Texas for a speaking engagement. Before her ministry event, she visited a Christian bookstore. She was looking through a book titled The Pastor’s Handbook. The store clerk commented that the book is to pastors what salt and pepper is to every dinner table. She told Henrietta, “This book was written 100 years ago, but it is still selling.” Miss Mears smiled as she looked up from the book. “My grandfather was the pastor of First Baptist Church of Chicago. He wrote the book.” Henrietta’s sovereign start was anchored by a rich spiritual heritage.

Last week we learned about Henrietta’s amazing mother. This week the 1-1-1 gives flowers to Henrietta’s father. E. Ashley Mears was a lay-leader in the church. His vocation was banking. (Did you know that 90% of the leaders listed in the Bible are lay-leaders?) Mr. Mears was disciplined with his tongue. He used his words intentionally, always eager to edify, and never to hurt or tear another person down especially when they were not present to defend themselves. (Wouldn’t our churches be glorious if no one engaged in the sin of gossip?) At her mother’s funeral, her dad affirmed their lifelong commitment to never use words in a derogatory, disparaging or discouraging fashion. Henrietta’s father always focused on the positive, saying only the best of other people. What an amazing environment of consistent positivity to learn the narrow path of discipleship.

1 QUESTION

Miss Mears always said that consistency is the key to parenting children. For those of us with kiddos, how consistent are we to use our words to bless others, and never tear down?

Until Next Tuesday,

John