Grandpa Helps with School
I published my first blog post on April 29, 2013. I got my first encouraging response from Melissa (not her real name) on May 2. Many more have followed.
I first met Melissa at a small homeschool event about 2001 or so, while she was still thinking about homeschooling. I eventually had the privilege of meeting, not only her husband and her sons, but also her parents, plus several of her siblings, their spouses, and their children. I have rarely come across a more godly family of servant hearts.
Melissa’s daddy has been very ill for many years, but that hasn’t stopped him from serving people and building up the body of Christ. Melissa’s mama has been taking care of him for all of those years, but that hasn’t kept her from doing the same.
And what devoted grandparents they are. Even her Daddy’s multiple dialysis treatments each week haven’t kept Melissa’s parents from making the three-hour trip to see their grandson in Mary Evelyn’s plays year after year. An emergency kept them away from the play last September, but that is the first time they have missed.
Melissa’s dad’s health has become such a challenge that he and his wife are now staying with Melissa’s brother and his wife who live not very far from their home. As we say in the South, I am proud of Melissa’s brother and her sister-in-law. However, I am not surprised. I know that’s the kind of family they are. What a blessing for these grandchildren to get this precious time with their Grandpa and Grandma.
I am also proud of Melissa’s daddy and mama for staying with their son’s family. When I was a young mother, a dear elder’s wife taught me a lesson about letting others help you. She said that Christians cannot serve other people if those other people won’t let them. She was right. It takes grace to serve others and grace to be served.
Last Thursday, Melissa sent me a photo of her daddy helping to homeschool his granddaughter. I finally got around to asking her to find out if everyone was okay with my sharing it with you. I heard back from her yesterday. Here you are!
One generation shall praise Your works to another,
And shall declare Your mighty acts.
Psalm 145:4Â
I see you and Ray living out this same pattern with your grandchildren, and it is an encouragement indeed! Thank you for your quiet, faithful example!
Thank you, Betsy, you are such an encouragement.