A testimony illustrating our Faith Part 3 – Living Morally article.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)
I have many memories and a few photos from when I was a young man helping my Grandpa Luea in Kansas on his farm. As a German immigrant from Russia, he had a strong work ethic and farmed thousands of acres. Even though we didn’t live close-by, my father made it a priority to visit my grandparents and lend a helping hand during the annual wheat harvest.
Much has changed since those days in the 1960s. A laundry list of distractions draws the attention of our grandkids inward instead of outward, so my wife and I have made a decision to help our grandkids develop different habits.
We have fifteen grandsons. Throughout the year we engage them in service: tending the garden, cleaning out the gutters, shoveling snow, and hanging our BIG Christmas wreath between the upper story windows after Thanksgiving.
When the grandkids serve us around the house, it seems like we are getting the better deal. But in reality, they are! They are being taught to lead the rewarding life of service to others. It has to start somewhere! What starts out as practical service to us, fosters service to others, and accustoms our grandkids to a joyful habit. We intentionally set up these teaching moments.
We don’t know what career path our grandsons will take over the next ten years, but we are certain the work ethic they are gaining will carry them far, both in the service of God and of others. If they continue as “givers” more than “takers” — following in their ancestors’ footsteps — they will lead purpose-filled lives.
Mike Luea has 25 grandkids and lives in Lansing, MI with his wife Barbara.
Copyright © 2019 Grandly: The Strategic Grandparents Club.