Missing Grandchildren

Has anyone seen these two? The fair-haired little boy is 8 months old and, truth be told, is just about perfect. And the precious bundle of energy squeezing her Popi's face, she is soon-to-be three. It's been too many days since I saw them last and it's beginning to feel a little to heavy.

Within the next four months the number of this tribe will double. I say, "Bring 'em on." I want to be very intentional about being in the lives of my grandchildren. I think grandparents have something significant to contribute to their lives. We are the embodiment of a story that stretches back in time and testifies to the faithfulness of God through generations. In our family, this is a story that is fresh, current and continually being written.

Tracking the redemptive footprints of God in the past was difficult because there was barely traceable evidence. Over the past 30-40 years that has changed dramatically. The footprints and fingerprints of God is all over this family. God has been our refuge in dark seasons and our delight in celebration. He is common to our conversation and the essence of what makes "us" the family we are.

Parenting is a difficult challenge. I watch from a distance now and admire the effort my kids are putting forth to shape these grandkids of mine. I'm honored that they desire as much involvement as I can provide.

Several years ago while pastoring a church with many folks who make up this distinguished segment of society called grandparents, I picked up a book titled Grand-Parenting. Just today I have reviewed some it's content. I'm in a unique position as a grandfather. As Kesler writes in his book, "...grandparents share the longer and larger view that they have gained from life's experiences, they can reinforce the truths that parents attempt to teach without encountering the same resistance that parents experience."

If you pass these grandchildren, let them know Popi is missing them terribly.