My mother’s parents were Godly people. They sought to live out their faith in practical ways and were an example of holy living to their children. Now, their faith is being carried on in their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
My grandmother passed away a number of years ago, but her memory lives in the hearts and through the lives of those she influenced.
I particularly remember her sense of humor and that she knew how to take life in its proper perspective. I cannot ever remember her laughing at other people, but I vividly remember how she laughed at herself. Great memories that still bring a smile – like:
Whenever we took a picture, she would always say: “remember to hold-in your stomach” and in every picture you can see that she did! To this day, whenever a picture is taken, I remember to “hold-in my stomach.”
Her laughter when telling of an incident using hairspray. She didn’t actually use hairspray but instead picked up the wrong can and sprayed her hair with furniture polish! At the end of the day, she patted her hair and exclaimed, “I thought that the spray was holding up unusually well.”
But she also taught her children the dignity of all people. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all grew up believing that calling someone “stupid” was the worst offense imaginable. She believed that God loved everyone, and that love is shown in how you think and speak of others. Now, she has a great-great-grandchild being taught the same way.
God worked through the example of my grandmother’s life. Paul told Timothy: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you. Hence I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you. . .” 1 Timothy 1:5-6.