“Make sure you call them Daddy and Mommy.”

That was my father’s advice to me in the weeks leading up to my wedding. It felt strange to think that I would use those beloved names on people other than my own parents.

I had to wrap my mind around the idea, but it started to become natural over time.

In the years that followed, I realized the reason my dad wanted me to do start my relationship with my in-laws that way. He wanted me to establish my place in the family and ultimately show respect by honoring them with those special titles.

Over the years, my father-in-law and mother-in-law have supported our family in ways I can’t describe without tears.

Almost a year ago, when I was looking for a job, Daddy and Mommy prayed for me every single day…until I received the news that I got the job. Daddy said knew I was going to get it…because he prayed for it.

This past Thanksgiving, we had the joy of spending time with them. While Daddy and I were sitting at the kitchen table one afternoon, he talked about his relationship with God and spoke of God as if they were friends.

He told me that he does not allow ANYTHING to come in between him and God. Nothing. He is constantly talking to his heavenly Father.

I love that about him.

And my mother-in-law…ya’ll need to try her amazing spaghetti with an Indian twist. And anything else she makes…YUM!

But most importantly, she is praying for her children and her grandchildren, and they love being with their Ammachi (which is Grandmother in our Malayalam language).

My own father is a Pastor. When we were growing up, he would frequently speak on this verse,

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” -which is the first commandment with a promise- “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Ephesians 6:1-3

I am immensely grateful for my own parents who raised me and STILL pray for me. My heart is also full for the two new parents God gave me through marriage. Four people who love Jesus and are prayer warriors and provide wisdom.

As we embark on this season of Christmas, may we be ever so grateful for the impact of our parents.