Schools are out, so this may be the time of year when your grandparenting kicks into high gear. A good share of that honored relationship could be summarized in the phrase, “Blessed assurance.” (Yes, I am aware that some readers may accuse me of stealing words from a beloved hymn writer. In my defense, though, let’s just say that I’m singing them differently….)
Much of your work with grandkids fits under the category of care–Helping them with their daily activities; feeding and washing them; applying BandAids; keeping them from chasing passing cars—that sort of necessary attention.
Another set of tasks gathers around your relationship with these beloved kids. You get to know them, and they get to know you. Part of who you are gets imprinted on who they are, and who they will become. That’s where blessed assurance takes place.
One of the most difficult parts of your grandkids’ growing up is finding their place amidst today’s whirlwind of influences. Kids wonder, “What’s right and what’s wrong?” “Who do I trust?” “What’s going to happen to me as I grow up?” or “Am I good enough?” Difficult questions whose answers are as elusive as a pet hamster.
That’s where you come in. You fill the part of their lives that gives them confidence in their worth, their abilities, their wisdom and their future. In your relationships with these grand ones, you offer the blessings of experience, memory, perspective and hope. You know the good questions and the helpful answers. You listen just a little more carefully and knowingly. They can depend on you.
As you take up this role again, consider it a privilege that you have this godly influence in your grandchildren’s lives. You’re blessed assurance for them.
Something you could sing about, hmm?
