I recently had the opportunity to accompany three of our grandchildren to a local science museum. We had a great afternoon exploring exhibits of wild animals and sea creatures, experimenting with sound machines and building blocks, learning fascinating things about the human body and taking in a show at the planetarium. One exhibit had to do with light….my grandson and I sat across from each other with a large glass pane between us. Each of us had a dial to control the amount of light that shone upon us. The more light we allowed to shine, the more clearly we could see the person across from us. When we turned the dial to diminish the light, we saw less and less of the other person, until all we could see in the pane was ourselves. It struck me that God’s principles are everywhere evident…maybe especially in a science museum. I couldn’t ignore the lesson….I can go through a day where all I see is myself, my needs, my concerns. That’s when I am not allowing God (who is Light) to shine in my life. When I “turn the dial”(perhaps through prayer, Bible study, fellowship) I can begin to focus on others and less on myself. I was reminded of Paul’s words in I. Cor 13:12 (KJ), “for now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face….then shall I know even as also I am known.” I truly do see “through a glass darkly,” but I’m reaching for the dial….

With all the exuberance and energy of a fifteen-month old, our grandson, Lee, headed to the ocean as quickly as his little legs would take him. For some of our grandchildren, the first encounter with the foaming surf has been frightening. We would carry them to the edge of the breaking tides and hold them up so they could feel the sand and the water converge on their reluctant toes. It could take several attempts before they would not react fearfully, clamoring up into our arms. But not Lee! He was drawn to the ocean like a baby turtle, determined to make his way to those waves. I walked (jogged) beside him, holding his tiny hand when he would let me and trying to keep him in my shadow as the sun became more intense. Keeping him in my shadow was a constant challenge. It meant keeping him close to me, at my side, while he was blissfully unaware of my efforts to protect him. It occurred to me how often we are unaware, and unappreciative, of God’s protective presence. David understood, when he prayed “hide me under the shadow of your wings…” (Psalm 17:8), “the children of men put their trust under the shadow of your wings..(Psalm 36:7), “In the shadow of your wings I will make my refuge…” (Psalm 57:1), “In the shadow of your wings I will rejoice” (Psalm 63:7) (NKJ). With childlike dependence, David said “my soul follows close behind you, Your right hand upholds me” (Psalm 63:8). He knew that to be in God’s shadow, he had to stay as close to Him as he could. But sometimes, God moves to keep us close even when we are unaware or unable. I John 2:1 refers to Jesus Christ as our Advocate. The Greek word for “advocate” is “paraklesis” and refers to “coming to one’s side.” I know our grandchildren cannot possibly understand how much we love them and want to protect them. We pray as they grow older, and the waves of life become less gentle, that they each will hold tightly to the hand of their God and rejoice in His protective shadow.

A Special Kind of Love, a Tribute

The side door of the van had not even fully opened when, to our delight, three joyful children clamored out and ran towards us. I’ll never forget the moment my oldest grandson, Owen, lept into my arms. His hug was so full of love that it filled my heart to overflowing. It was one of those “I don’t ever want to let go” kind of hugs. The feeling was mutual. We had not seen our grandchildren, except by Skype, for nearly nine months. Our daughter and son-in-law had taken advantage of a great job opportunity as a way to let their children experience the rich culture of India for six months. But, as often happens in such situations, the six months was extended to a year, and they were visiting us for the holidays. We had a wonderful visit, catching up and learning everything we could about their amazing adventure ….especially fascinating when seen through the eyes of the children. We treasure the memory of hugs and cuddles on the couch, watching movies or looking at photo albums. I have to admit, it was harder to say good-by this time than when they first left. We know God is holding them in His arms and directing their lives, and we praise Him for that. Our time apart has reminded us that family is a gift so precious only God could have thought it up. And nothing brings joy like the love of grandchildren!
Now, three of our precious grandchildren are back in India. And, once again, we are grateful for Skype! Another grandson lives in Atlanta and, although we prefer that to India, it’s hard to spend the time with him that we would like. Still, we have gotten to watch him grow from the day of his birth, to sitting, crawling and preparing to take that first step. I’ve had the joy of being chased on my knees around the playroom, reading stories, and stacking blocks just for the fun of watching him knock them down. He smiles with his whole face, as if the joy of life can hardly be contained. I love to be asked to come for a visit and spend time with Lee. I marvel that his parents worry about me “giving up the time” to come, when time with him (them) is a gift.
God is good….and four of our grandchildren are only twenty minutes away! Ages four, three, two and four months, they are totally and completely amazing. At this point, their parents are more tired than amazed, so I am glad I am close enough to give them a little break now and then. I love going through the front door, and hearing the playful clamor coming from their upstairs rooms. I especially love when they realize I’m there and the clamor stops to the cry of “MiMi!” I’m old (39 plus shipping and handling), but to this day I cannot think of a better compliment than Sean telling me, “MiMi, you are so fun!”
Proverbs 17, verse 6 says, “children’s children are the crown of old men (and women!), and the glory of children is their father,” and, I could add, their grandfather. We are so thankful to be grandparents. Of all the titles the world could offer, none compares to “MiMi and PaPa!” Our continual prayer is that we might be a Godly influence in the lives of all of our grandchildren. I am writing as a tribute to my mother and father in law, who have always been spiritual pillars in our family. Our children have always had the blessing of Godly grandparents, who have treasured being a part of their lives. Now, as we witness the faithfulness and dedication of our children, and their efforts to be Godly parents, we realize that the example of their grandparents has impacted the lives of every child, grandchild and great-grandchild they have. I hope they know how much they are loved, and what a rich spiritual heritage they have given their family. God is faithful and He promises in Psalms 102, verse 28, “The children of your servants will live in your presence; their descendants will be established before you.” Can there be a more awesome promise? Nothing brings joy like the love of grandchildren….living in God’s presence, established before Him!”