Few events in life are as precious as the arrival of a grandchild. They bring new life to aging parents and hope for the future. They all develop their own individual ways and unusual habits that are endearing and worth tucking away in “memory banks” for future moments. Memories like the names they give us to get our attention, their favorite blankets they cannot live without, or the huge number of stuffed animals they can carry from one place to another without dropping a single one of them are some of mine.
Solomon said it well: “Children’s children are a splendor to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” The inestimable joy that comes with a grandchild is difficult to explain. It is indeed like a burst of splendor that produces pride that is difficult to diminish no matter what happens.
But there seems to be a circle in this verse that we must not overlook. With all of the pleasurable moments we enjoy with our grandchildren, there comes tremendous responsibility. It is in the second section of this verse: “parents are the pride of their children.” Here, Solomon sets a stake in the ground that indicts parents. He insists that we must recognize and accept the responsibility that we who are parents have to God.
To have an honorable grandchild the grandparent is responsible to have been a model parent. This does not imply that parents are to be perfect. That’s not possible. But it does mean that the grandchild’s parents were well mentored by parents who honored God in all things.
Prayer: Father, every parent wants to be a parent that pleases You. Forgive our failures and open our minds and hearts and help us to follow Your example. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are a splendor to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.
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