In this blog, I want to introduce a grandfather who made a difference by passing on their legacy of faith to the next generations. I want to tell you the story of my maternal grandfather, Deldon Snider, a man you would not find mentioned in the WHO’s WHO of famous people. But, in the Lamb’s book of life, you will find his name on the scroll.

Will you join Elizabeth, Anne, and me? Teach your children and grandchildren to fear the Lord, obey His commandments, and anchor their soul in the grace of God. We all will experience dark clouds. But they are fleeting. Soon the field of light will break in forever. For all who are in Christ, our Hallelujahs will never end.

What are your best practices? We would love for you to share how God is working in your life and the lives of your adult children and grandchildren. Leave a comment below and let your story be an encouragement to others.

I was immediately sold on the idea when I first heard about GrandCamp. Helping grandparents intentionally point their grandchildren to Christ takes this already special relationship and ensures it has eternal value. Grandparenting isn’t just about leaving a legacy; it’s about leaving a legacy that points to Jesus and makes Him the end goal of everything in life.

Traditions, habits, or customs can be instruments in our grandparents’ toolbox as we seek to be a disciple-maker in the lives of our children and grandchildren. Intentional Christian grandparents can create teachable moments to pass our faith in God to the generations that follow.

“Always make room in your home for Jesus, just as Mary and Martha did whenever he came by,” my wife Lois’s 104-year-old grandfather Carl exhorted us.  We were engaged to be married at the time and traveled to Connecticut to meet the family patriarch. While Grandpa Carl’s body was worn, his mind was as sharp as ever. I left my twenty-minute visit inspired by Grandpa to be like him – to pass on my faith as he did, should the Lord bless me with children and grandchildren.  

YOU HAVE AN APPOINTED calling and purpose given by God to your family. So, check-in with the Coach. God intends for grandparents of all ages to be strengthened by the grace in Christ Jesus and to continue as a good soldier with Life’s Third Age. Give it all the heart and talent and skills and wisdom you have. Join the growing movement of men and women who choose to allow God to use them as a disciple-maker in their families.

Although challenging at times, I have found that this pandemic period has been a time of creativity and blessing.  There have been many treasures – moments of blessing and joy – amidst the restrictions and difficulties.  Sometimes, we have to look for the treasure, as it is a “hidden treasure” that we need to uncover.

The impact of praying in anticipation for my new grandchildren also had a surprising effect on me. My prayer for them was changing me. I found myself feeling the responsibility before God to be the one to make a spiritual impact on them. In effect, God was moving me to be a small part of the answer to my prayer for them to know Jesus.

And why did that faith “continue strong” in Timothy?  Because it was faithfully passed down through three generations, starting with a Grandma! Grandcamps?  I should think so!  The Power of Camp?  Undeniable and indelible!  How do I know?  Been there, done that, still going strong.

The other day my daughter, a single mom of three boys, was discouraged about something she was trying to trust God for during this pandemic. So, I reminded her of a story. Her story. Our story. A story about the goodness and faithfulness of God.

We have much to be thankful for as we approach this weekend of family, friends, turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. You know, this might be a good time to take a few minutes for reflection and compose a “Thankful List” and give God all the praise and glory.  

During this time of gathering restrictions and social distancing, I believe we have learned some life-long lessons regarding the support, encouragement, and value of relationships. While some may still behave as though they are an island unto themselves, the simple truth is that we need one another. All our shortcomings and failures combined with the complexities of life only reinforce the truth that we need one other as we journey toward eternal life with Christ.