I pray that out of his glorious riches, he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:16-19
I love special days and use them as opportunities to bless our children and grandchildren! As I reflect on the love of God, I always look for unique ways and times to reflect His perfect love to us.
God’s love is amazing, infinite, steadfast, and unwavering. His love casts out fear (I John 4:18); nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:35,37-39). It is unfailing, unshakable, faithful, and precious (Psalm 36:5-7). His love is sufficient, life-giving, eternal (John 3:16) and never ends (Lamentations 3:22-23).
There are so many reasons to celebrate and praise the sure love of God.
As we approach Valentine’s Day, I realize the day means so much more to me now than a box of chocolates, a bouquet, and a special meal with my dear husband, Dave. Valentine’s Day now includes three adult children, their beautiful spouses, and seven grandchildren. The number of names on my VD celebration list has, indeed, grown!
How do we show meaningful love to our children and grandchildren? I trust the following suggestions might serve as ways to engage in the lives of our families and to sieze the opportunity we have as parents and grandparents to demonstrate the greatness of the God we serve and of His abundant love for every member of our family.
1. Plant a seed instead of loading them up with chocolate eggs and candy bunny rabbits. Herbs, tomatoes, peas, flowering plants are inexpensive, simple to start, and fun to watch as they grow. But this can also lead to moments of great value spiritually. For instance, you can:
Talk about creation; the wonder, wisdom, and power of God as He demonstrates His love and care through creation. Even the order of God’s created world points to the grandeur and majesty of His glory.
The parable of the sower and the seed – In this parable take note of the importance of the seed. The seed of God’s word loves to grow in the rich soil of humility, submission, and prayer. Take time to plant the seed of the gospel of the good news of Jesus Christ in the heart of your grandchild.
Talk about the stages of plant growth and that God desires us to grow to a mature faith in Him and not to remain as young children. (Colossians 4:12 and Ephesians 4:14-15).
2. Make a collage of photos of each child and grandchild and include a favourite memory or story. For instance, I love amusement parks and will ride every roller coaster in the park. My husband, however, will not! I still remember the day we took our young grandchildren to the local amusement park, and I talked my five-year-old grandson, Lukas, into going on the Timber Falls roller coaster ride with me. He wasn’t too sure about it, but trusting Oma that all would be well, he agreed to go. As we climbed up the first leg of the track, I could feel his muscles tighten and sense his fear of what would lie beyond the top of that rail. By the time we got to the final drop, he was yelling for help! I thought I must surely be the worst Oma ever! As we exited the ride, I was astonished to hear my young grandson shout, “Oma! Let’s go again!” Fun memories – and we need to remind our children and grandchildren of those special, happy times of sharing.
3. Mail a special Valentine Card to your children and older grandchildren with words of love and blessing and maybe a small gift card for a brew at their favourite coffee shop. Include a Bible verse that you are praying for them. Write words of affirmation and let them know their great value to you and God. In a time when our world seems to be so confusing, let those precious ones know you are on their side and will always be their biggest cheerleader.
4. Remind our children and grandchildren of the great lover of our souls, the Lord Jesus Christ. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” What a rich verse! John Piper says of John 3:16, “We may, therefore, say to every human being, “God loves you. And this is how he loves you: He gave his Son to die, so that if you would believe, your sins would be forgiven and you would have eternal life.”
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13
There is no greater love than the love of God. Share it freely with those whom you love.
2 Responses
Thank you for this enriching encouragement, Kathie. I’m off to spend the afternoon with my two granddaughters so your message is right on time.
So thankful for you comment, Wendy. Have a great time your with granddaughters!