An expanded job description

After some reflection concerning the responsibilities of this "job," it seems logical that I should begin to assume the role prior to the actual event in order to gain some practice. Grandparenting is indeed a very special role that should not be overlooked as a mere position that is thrust upon us. The announcement of my expanded job description was delivered over the phone with great excitement and anticipation by my son. "Dad," he explained, "You're going to be a grandparent!"

I've been wondering when my new role would be initiated, and since this is my first time in this "phase," it's important to lay the groundwork for future success in this area, with the expectation that it will be repeated time and time again by both my son and his wife, as well as my daughter and her husband.

Hopefully, we all have many wonderful stories to tell of times spent at grandpa or grandma's house. Who can forget those delicious meals that your grandmother prepared, that special moment that you witnessed your son or daughter helping granddad mow the grass or wash the car, or the time your mom or dad just held your child and rocked him or her to sleep!

A grandparent is an integral part of every family that helps the grandchild to know who he or she is and where they have come from. It's especially important for the grandchild to hear those stories of what their mom or dad was like as a small child or teenager, what challenges they faced growing up, and how they met those challenges with the help of their parents. But there is even a more important aspect of becoming a grandparent.

Many times, children will tell their parents they see the similarities and influence of the grandparent coming through in dear ole' mom and dad. So, you see, for all you parents who are eagerly anticipating this new phase of life, this fact is something that most of you are surely contemplating. How much and what kind of an example will we set in our new, and important role? We have a unique opportunity as grandparents to now pass on lessons learned and much spiritual wisdom.

There are many examples in the Bible of the positive impact of grandparents. One that comes to mind is that of Lois, the grandmother of Timothy. Paul writes, "when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also" (2 Timothy 1:5). This is definitely what we would all like to be remembered for in the minds of our grandchildren. My dad would often tell me the story of his grandmother reading to him from the Bible when he was only five years old.

As I prepare to enter the phase of life known as grandparenting, I am doing a little soul searching. I want to be a positive role model for our new granddaughter, showing her by my example that God's way works. Living Church of God publishes a wonderful booklet called Successful Parenting: God's Way. The principles expounded in this booklet are not only helpful for parents, but also for grandparents and grandparents to be!

The phase of life known as grandparenting can be a wonderful experience for all grandparents, filled with the joy of helping to nurture and shape a future child of God. I'm truly looking forward to stepping into my new role and hearing the words spoken for the first time, "Hi, Grandpa."