Friends,

Pastor Dick often shares a joke about grandparents and grandchildren. Question: Why do grandparents and grandparents usually get on so well? Answer: They both share a common enemy. Perhaps the answer is overly strong, but suffice it to say that grandparents and grandchildren typically share little relational baggage. Thus, grandparents may be perfectly poised to share their spiritual legacy with their grandchildren.

You all know how much Clint and I have enjoyed our first grandchild, Steven, who is now two years and three months. We found out last week that our second grandchild, due November 23, is to be a baby girl! We are so thrilled that we will have one of each! I prayed I would have also have a granddaughter one day to pass down a beloved tea set, childhood books for girls, and some special pieces of jewelry. And I can’t wait to buy little dresses! 

Now a Christian case for grandparenting is not just for casual spoiling but also to fulfill a spiritual calling. Both Psalm 78 and Deuteronomy 4 indicate that grandparents are uniquely positioned to pass on the faith to the next generation. Psalm 78:4-7 commands older generations to declare the “praises of the Lord” and God’s mighty works to their children and grandchildren, ensuring the next generation sets their hope in God. Deuteronomy 4:9 exhorts parents and grandparents never to forget what God has done and to pass on the great stories of faith to their children and grandchildren. Titus 2 throughout calls older men and women to mentor what is good. Grandparents and elders can indeed bring a seasoned, long-term perspective on God’s faithfulness. My own grandparents and I often engaged in deep conversations about faith, and I learned about love from them.

As grandparents, we often spend time in prayer for our grandchildren—so that they come to faith, grow in that faith, and know God’s love and protection in life. Besides being prayer warriors on their behalf, we are also anchors of unconditional love and family stability as we support their parents, especially in times of hardship or fracture. I’ve also known many who were never parents or grandparents but take seriously the biblical commands to care for and spiritually edify children in their midst. Many of you have told me that your children (and grandchildren) no longer attend church, so it may be up to all of us to tell them about Jesus and his ways. I see that as one of my roles now that I am in this beautiful season of life. May we all attend to the children all around us and show them the ways of faith.

Blessing to You!

Sandi