The Gift of Life
As my fourth grandchild, a girl, was brought into this world, it reminded me of the sacredness of life. As a grandma, I waited eagerly for the day to come. Filled with anticipation, I would ask my daughter daily if there were any signs of her coming. Although they live in another state, I was able to witness (not watch or be present for) the birth of this miraculous child. Every child is a miracle. I am filled with awe at how small she is. Even though her brother was born just shy of two years ago, it is easy to forget how delicate babies are.
My awe is reignited, especially as a grandparent, as I witness birth in a different way. I am reminded of Psalm 127:3, “Certainly sons are a gift from the LORD, the fruit of the womb, a reward.” I am also reminded of the value of children and how they are a gift from God. By living this experience through the eyes of my adult child, I am blessed with gratitude and joy that is not all my own.
Life as a Divine Miracle
The process of life, from conception to birth, is full of God’s fingerprints. Life is His design. We are each uniquely created for an individual purpose. Each of us are given gifts by God that are not quite duplicated by another. Science explains the “how” of how new life occurs, but faith helps us understand the “why.” “For the spirit of God made me, the breath of the Almighty keeps me alive.” Job 33:4
I have seen and hear of so many miracles in life. There is even a notable story in the Bible. God has designed us for a purpose. That in itself is a miracle. Watching these miracles unfold as life are a blessing. As a grandparent, I am not as worried “if” the child will meet a milestone, but instead I am in awe of “how” they accomplish the milestone.
Parenting vs. Grandparenting: A Shift in Vision
As a parent, I was very busy, very protective and had the obligation to ensure my children got the best care possible. As a grandparent, I am still protective and do want what’s best for my grandchildren, I am more deeply appreciative of every action they take. I have been able to reflect on what they are receiving and discern where I can fill in the gaps. It can definitely be more fun, because i can relax in a grandparent role, but there is still safety to be aware of.
After raising three kids, I have a little bit of wisdom that was gained through the experiences. Since each child was unique, I gained different knowledge from each one. Now, I am in no way a child expert, but I do have some knowledge to share. Proverbs 17:6 reminds us that “Children’s children are the crown of the elderly, and the glory of children is their parentage.”
I can also say, that I view my grandchildren with a different set of “parenting” eyes. It is easier to view and focus on what is good about them and what their potential strengths are versus being overly concerned with how they are different or how they might struggle doing or learning specific things. That is the gift of grandparenthood! It is a gift we can share with our children as they parent their own children.
The Sacredness of Children
Every child, regardless of circumstances, is a miracle. Each one is unique and will serve a unique purpose in this world. Children often bring joy and laughter to situations that may seem dire. They are a promise of hope for a new and bright future. Every child should be valued because they are a child.
Our culture has experienced a loss for the value of life. As Christians, we are called to defend it. Life is a miracle that God has designed. Jeremiah 1:5 demonstrates this, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you.” We need to value every human life because it is a life.
Graceful Moments of Awakening
Cherish every living moment. Holding your grandchild opens your eyes to God’s presence in everyday life. See like the child; the awe in wonder how things are. Remembering when they first discovered they had fingers! That is something we take for granted every day. With each grandchild, I am experiencing life through new eyes. I was so busy parenting my children, I was not able to truly enjoy how they grew and experienced growing into the people they have become.
Being a grandparent really gives life to the title of my column, Graceful Awakening. Along with the physical and mental growth, there is spiritual growth. I am so blessed to be able to take part in the spiritual growth of my grandchildren. It does bring about a spiritual transformation much like a graceful awakening. Seeing God through their wonder and awe creates a place to relive the newness of faith.
Living Out Gratitude for Life
Cherish the children in your lives. Be advocates for life by being present when with a child. They need you more than they need electronics. Spend time reflecting in God’s love. A child often gives love the way God does, without any conditions. Love children the same way. Enjoy their presence and notice what they can teach you.
Live with gratitude for life. There are many ways to do this. You can
- Pray for life
- Volunteer with organizations that support basic needs of people
- Volunteer with organizations that support mental and emotional growth for kids (like mentoring)
- Support mothers/families as ways to honor life through donations and service
Remember what John 10:10 states, “A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.” Embrace God and life. Embrace children.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving
I offer this heartfelt prayer in thanksgiving for the gift of life, children and grandchildren.
Dear heavenly Father,
I offer my gratitude for the gift of my children and my children’s children. Thank you for entrusting me with their lives and for helping me endure the struggles of motherhood. Thank you for the joys of being a grandparent. Life is precious and I am forever grateful for each moment you have given me. I ask that you continue to bless my children, my grandchildren and children everywhere. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
I encourage you to reflect on and share the miracles in your own life.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In