The Irrepressible Joy of Grandparents – Seeing Grandchildren in Heaven
The Lord bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life! May you see your children's children! Peace be upon Israel! Psalm 128:5-6
Perhaps you have encountered them before. People who you once thought were normal and balanced people, but you suddenly find to be full of irrepressible joy at becoming grandparents for the first time. All dignity and restraint are exchanged for the opportunity to elicit one simple smile from their grandchild. Grandparents are so thankful to see their grandchildren and not only for the first time, but every time.
The Scriptures teach us that every good and perfect gift comes from above. Also, the opportunity to see your children’s children is understood a great blessing from God. The care of children is a matter of stewardship because we understand that children belong to our heavenly Father and that we are to be stewards of those entrusted to our care. The responsibility of parents is to raise their children as God’s children so that they know their heavenly Father and that they will dwell with Him in eternity. Parents and grandparents are entrusted by God to do more than give children “stuff” or take them to practices. They are called by God to give to their children and their children’s children Jesus as they fill their ears and hearts with the Gospel.
The last two years have meant that many grandparents have been separated from their children. They are still filled with irrepressible joy in seeing their grandchildren. However, grandparents don’t just want to see their grandchildren for Christmas or at the family reunion. Grandparents pray that they will see their grandchildren eternally in heaven. Parents today make great sacrifices for their children. Their concern for children is commendable. However, children need parents and grandparents who prioritize teaching them who they are as God’s children, created in the image of God, bought by the blood of Jesus and called by name by the Holy Spirit. Children need parents and grandparents who help their children to see Jesus so that they will see them eternally as they are all filled with the irrepressible joy of being in the presence of their Savior.
Prayer – Almighty God, heavenly Father, You have blessed us with the joy and care of children. Give us calm strength and patient wisdom that, as they grow in years, we may teach them to love whatever is just and true and good, following the example of our Savior, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fraternally in Christ,
President Lee Hagan