How we live out these virtues can influence our grandchildren’s lives.
Philippians 4:9 – “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.”
St. Paul isn’t afraid to promote modeling faith. Grandparents shouldn’t be either.
Our faith in God forms our relationships with all those around us, including our grandchildren. So how can we be models of faith for these special people? Very simply, by our actions. Take them to church, sit with their families at church. Make sure you support their faith journey by attending ceremonies (baptisms, dedications, confirmations, etc.) Also, tell them you pray for them when they express a need or problem and ask them what you can pray for. Use natural occasions to express your faith and share it with them.
Our hope in Christ is like an anchor. It’s something you cannot see that holds you in place when circumstances make your life turbulent. Romans 8:24 says “…now hope that is seen is not hope,” just as an anchor that is seen isn’t doing the job of an anchor. What Grandparent doesn’t need hope?”
Sad, bad, even devastating, things happen, like an untimely death in the family, and our grandchildren can and should see us going on with hope even in the face of hard times. If we live as if we have a reason to live, not giving up or despairing, we show them the hope of heaven.
Love is the foundation. It’s an act of the will, not always something you “feel” but it’s something you “do”, and it looks different to each child according to age, gender, and interests. Each one needs to be loved and accepted right where they are. Stand by them and give them unconditional love when they have challenges or even make bad decisions. Be “on their side” while still calling them on.
“So faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
(I Cor 13:13).
This article is a summary of one of the talks given at the first “Do it Grandly” conference held in February in Lansing, Michigan.
Mike and Mary Miklosovic have 29 grandchildren and live in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
Copyright © 2018 Grandly: The Strategic Grandparents Club.