Mary Ball Washington‭ (‬1708-1789‭): ‬A mother’s influence

Mary Ball Washington (1708-1789) was the dedicated Christian mother of George Washington, our first president. She had a lasting influence on her son. For example, when her son was leaving home in his early 20s to begin his lifelong service for his country (in the French and Indian War), he recorded the parting word of his mother: “Remember that God is our only sure trust. To Him I commend you … My son, neglect not the duty to secret prayer” (America’s God and Country, page 636). She instilled in her son the strong Christian character traits that remained with him for the rest of his life.

Many years later in 1789, as she lay dying of breast cancer, and before her son left for New York City to be sworn in on April 30 as our first president, he visited his mother in Virginia. Her words to her son during that last visit are here recorded: “…and you will see me no more; my great age, and the disease which is fast approaching my vitals, warn me I I shall not be long in this world; I trust in God and I may be somewhat prepared for the better. But go, George, fulfill the high destinies which Heaven appears to have intended for you; go, my son, and my that Heaven’s and mother’s blessing be with you always” (Ibid. p. 650). On Aug. 5, 1789, just four month later Mary Bell Washington died at 82 years of age. 

Mothers (and fathers also) have a tremendous influence on their children for good or for ill, for “as the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” If faith in God is vital to the mothers of America, it will be impressed in the hearts of their children. The outstanding Christian leadership of our first president can be attributed in many ways to his godly mother. 

Peace!