A great mom

It's sometime after midnight and I just came back from a run around the neighborhood. Late-night jogs often end up being special times for me because they turn into times of prayer and reflection. As you might imagine, what I'm reflecting on most these days is that I am a father. Wow, I'm daddy to someone. To be honest, I've always been a little scared at becoming a dad--partly because of the state of the world, but mostly because I know parenting is full of challenges and responsibility. Who is really ready? Well, I know of at least one person who is--my wife, Megan. As I ran across a field that's close to our subdivision, it hit me that God has blessed me with a woman who is going to be a wonderful mother to our children. By the time I stumbled to a stop in front of my house, I had five clear reasons why I know Megan is going to be a great mom. Here they are:

5. She's consistent ... and she's good. In fact, what first attracted me to Megan was her goodness. As I got to know Megan, I saw more and more godly characteristics in her. The one that stood out most is her purity. Simply put, she's doesn't like nastiness--not crude talk or revealing dress. I couldn't be happier that she'll reflect that godly purity to our children.

4. She's great with children. So many times I've watched her gravitate toward babies and toddlers. It's so genuine. She sees kids as a precious, beautiful gifts from God. If she's ever been around your child, I guarantee that she has love for them.

3. She has wonderful parents. When Megan and I first started dating, I went to her house where her family was hanging out together. Her mom, Leigh Ann, turned to me and said, "This is what we do Chris. We don't go many places because we just love being home. Family is most important." Mike and Leigh Ann have proven to me over and over that there focus is on God and family. They've passed that focus to Megan.

2. She's an excellent wife. She loves me unconditionally, and respects me even when I don't deserve it. When we disagree, Megan speaks her peace then lets me make the final call. When I make the wrong decision, she doesn't throw it in my face. Now that's a special woman. It amazes me that Megan follows me so willingly, especially when I can get lost finding my way out of a Wal-Mart parking lot. Even then, she doesn't laugh at me or become frustrated. No, she's patient and respectful when I do stupid things. I recently heard a preacher explain that the best way for a man to be a good father is by being a good husband. I'd say the same concept is true for a woman. Most of what my children learn about relationships as they grow up will be from watching Megan and I interact. I'm thankful that they'll be watching a woman who is loving and respectful, even when she's having a bad day.

1. She loves God ... with all her heart, soul and mind. Our eight-week-old baby is right now snuggled inside Megan's womb. I have no doubt that our very little one will soon know how much he or she is loved by Mommy because that kind of godly love always overflows.