Grandparenting

Acts 2:39, "The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all whom the Lord our God will call." 

A gray-haired woman in her 70s walked down the aisle of a plane, stopped by an empty seat, and asked the person sitting next to it, “Excuse me, do you have any grandchildren?” When the very surprised person responded, “Yes, I do!” the woman moved on down the aisle. Asking the same question, the person next to the empty seat stammered, “No, but we wish we did.” Sitting down, the woman said, “Wonderful! Now, I will tell you about mine!” Does that sound like you? 

Bragging on your grandkids is a blessing I hope you don’t take for granted. But that time as a grandparent is more than showing off pictures to strangers, it’s about showing Christ to those precious little people who bring you so much joy. Yet, a growing number of grandparents are on repeat mode of parenting. For them, those little people aren’t just weekend visitors but permanent residents and their responsibility. Whether or not this describes your situation, grandparents play a huge role in the emotional and spiritual development of a child. 

I’m speaking from the perspective of a parent just entering the teenage phase. Although I have no experience as a grandparent, I can see the tremendous value of their presence in my kids' lives. What should young parents expect from their parents' involvement in the lives of their children? Here are a few things that grandparents' experience and wisdom can do to aid the parent in the heat of the battle:

Be proactive and seek ways to get involved and stay involved in their life. Many times, a younger person will end up mimicking the actions of those who are constantly in their life. This may also require you to become familiar with texting, Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok, etc. Besides, that may be a great opportunity to spend time with your grandkids letting them teach you a thing or two about technology. (You may also be able to introduce them to the art of sending cards and writing letters.) 

Keep the main thing, the main thing. There’s nothing more important than for all of us to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21. 23). However, that means we never quit trying to shape, encourage, inspire, train our children to put God first. Psalm 71:18, “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” How are you doing with that? 

Surround your grandchildren with a hedge of prayer, when you’re with them and when you’re alone. Listen to them. Invite them into your life, but remember that they will want you to be part of their life, too. Do your giving while you are living. Send a grandchild to Bible School. Help as many families as you can find with the support and hope they need by your actions. Although grandparenthood sounds amazing, it’s important to remember that it’s not over until we are called home. Stay in the action, help those who need it, and love others passionately.