"I Commend to You Our Sister Mary"

“I Commend to You Our Sister Mary”

 

Over my pastoral journey I was privileged to work with and learn from many godly people. Most of these were older in those early days but less so as the years sped by. One of these choice servants was Mary Manning, one of the godliest ladies I’ve ever known. She was an excellent Bible teacher, had a heart for missions (several of her children and grandchildren served overseas including Dr. Ed Child, her son-in-law who is the subject of an earlier article, “Ed, the Beloved Physician”), and was a faithful prayer warrior. On a number of occasions I sought her counsel and can’t remember a time she wasn’t right on as she applied biblical principles to the matters under discussion.

As time went by Mary declined physically and was often in pain. One Sunday I asked, “Mary, how are you?” She answered, “I’m fine. This house I live in isn’t so good.” Soon thereafter her health kept her from attending church services and participating as she had for decades. When her grandson Ted visited her while he and his family were on furlough from the mission field she told him she wasn’t doing anyone any good in her condition. Ted bawled her out and told her it was her prayers that helped keep him and his family (as well as his sister and her family) safe and serving God in risky places. (Karen’s grandmother had spoken similar words years before and Karen assured her she would always be loved for who she was, not what she did.) So there are times it’s appropriate to be scolded by our grandchildren—I hope I remember this when I need to be as time goes on!

The Lord welcomed Mary into His Presence at the age of 93. She left a great legacy of faithfulness to her family, church, and countless friends. She influenced me as she prayed and imparted wisdom and was a big part in shaping my ministry in Manchester. And she epitomized the description of a godly woman: “She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue…Her children (and many others) arise and call her blessed…a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” (Proverbs 31:26,28,30).

In Romans 16:1 Paul wrote, “I commend to you our sister Phoebe….” I present Mary Manning to you as one whose example I (and all) would do well to follow.

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan