“Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers” (Proverbs 17:6).
We were speaking of the joy of grandchildren yesterday. I mentioned that our family scenario is somewhat different from many families. Because Karen and I were so very young when we adopted children that were older, our grandchildren started coming when we were still fairly young, and in fact, two of our grandchildren were the same age as our two youngest children. They had such fun growing up together. On one occasion as we were visiting our son and daughter-in-law, Karen and I took the four children out to McDonalds for lunch. We watched trains going past the station as we munched on burgers and fries. The kids so enjoyed it. The next day when our adult kids had to go work, the children wanted to go to lunch at the same place. No offense to McDonalds but please, not two days in a row! My youngest daughter Rachel asked me to please take them to the same place. I lovingly but firmly said, “No, we will go someplace different.” A few moments later my granddaughter climbed up on my lap, put her little arms around my neck and spoke with her southern accent, “Grandpa,” she said, “I sure do love y’all, Grandpa. You’re the best grandpa in all the world. I am so glad that you are my grandpa. It would surely mean a lot to me if y’all would take us to McDonalds again. I would just love to watch trains with you and Grandma,” she charmingly said. Then she looked into my eyes and said, “Please, Grandpa?” You guessed it. We ate burgers and fries again and watched trains fly past the station near McDonalds. Tomorrow I’ll tell you about devotions later that day.
For today: Grandparents, I hope that you are determined to be a blessing to your grandchildren. They are your “crown,” you know!