Mother of Methodism
Susanna Wesley, born on January 20, 1669, in London, was the youngest of 25 children of Dr. Samuel Annesley, a respected Puritan minister. Her life was grounded in faith and resilience, shaped by her upbringing and later, her marriage to Samuel Wesley in 1688. Despite facing financial hardships and the heartache of losing nine of her 19 children, Susanna remained steadfast in her commitment to her faith and her family's spiritual growth.
Training Souls for Eternity
Residing in the Epworth Rectory in Lincolnshire, Susanna dedicated herself to the spiritual and educational upbringing of her surviving ten children, including John and Charles Wesley, who would later become pivotal figures in the founding of Methodism. She held a structured daily schedule for her children, which included prayer, scripture reading, and rigorous education. Her influence was profound, as seen in her letters to her son John, where she emphasized the importance of living out the gospel, writing, 'There are two things to do about the gospel. Believe it and behave it.'
A Brand Plucked from the Burning
A defining moment in Susanna's life was the fire at the Epworth Rectory in 1709. John Wesley narrowly escaped the blaze, an event Susanna perceived as a divine sign, calling him 'a brand plucked from the burning.' This moment reinforced her belief in the power of prayer and divine intervention.
A Little Space, God Glorified
Susanna's legacy is evident in the lives of her sons, whose evangelical ministries were deeply rooted in the spiritual principles she instilled. Her humility and devotion are captured in her own words: 'I am content to fill a little space if God be glorified.' Susanna Wesley's story illustrates how unwavering faith and dedication can shape not only the lives of one's children but also leave a lasting impact on the world.
