MINISTERS MUSINGS

November 2007 Musing

GRANDMAS

Where would we be without grandmothers ( or Nans as they are often known). They are the lynch pin of the family enabling both young parents to go out to earn enough money to pay the mortgage. It is Nan who collects the children from school, or takes them to their numerous out of school activities like dancing, swimming, judo and the like. It is Nan who is always around to do a spot of baby sitting or have the children stay overnight to give mum and dad a break. It is Nan who always remembers birthdays and special occasions, and often produces a super iced cake or specially knitted gift to celebrate. It is Nan who is there in times of need to advise, support and help. So often it is Nan who brings the children to church. Nan always seems to have the time to do all these things.

Of course, grandfathers aren’t too bad either! They are very good at ‘fixing’ things like wobbly shelves. They are good too at making things like doll’s houses and wooden trucks. It is good to go fishing with ‘Gramps’ and he will always take the kids to play in the park. On special occasions there is usually the gift of a crisp ‘fiver’ or even a ‘tenner’, and after all, where would Nans be without ‘Gramps’.

The apostle Paul was very conscious of the role that Timothy’s grandmother played in his life. In his letter to Timothy he writes ,

‘I remember the sincere faith you have, the kind of faith that your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice also had. I am sure you have it also. ‘

What a wonderful legacy Timothy had from his grandmother, his faith. In this modern secular society we need parents and grandparents who are able to bring their children up in the faith of the Gospel. Thank God for Christian grandmothers and grandfathers. Would there were more of them.