Tell Them A Story
Most Grannies I know have a Kid Connection – some device of the internet communication system that allows one to both hear and SEE the person “on the other end”. Checking in with the grand kids is comforting, nurturing, and loving. It’s what Grannies do — keeping up with the kids.
Do you ever tell them stories? Okay, maybe not “over the phone”, but what about when you’re together? My mother used to tell us stories. She made up a trio of three little teddy bears who came alive at night; they would go into the city and get into all kinds of trouble. The only story I remember is the time they went to the laundromat…but…I digress.
Think about it, Grannies. Stories stick with us. They teach us that in Toastmasters! They also teach us that in Church. What did Jesus do? He told stories!!
We’ve agreed, you’re talking with your family about Jesus every chance you get, but are you telling them stories? YOUR stories?
I’m saying make them “real life”, personal stories – about how YOU have handled some of life’s situations – ones that your young ones are certain to encounter. If you think about it, I’ll bet many of your “lessons learned” stories can be connected with Jesus.
For example, how about the Ten Commandments? Do you have a story about how you disrespected your parents, but then turned it around — because of Jesus?
We each have more than one story about envying or coveting – at each stage of life I have at least one – the new doll, the date with “that guy”, the promotion at work.
Do you have a “forgiveness” story — that’s The Lord’s Prayer. What about “The BIG One”…love your neighbor? Jesus talked a lot about that.
Each of us has encountered many life situations that could make good “Life Lesson Stories” for our children and grandchildren. Because they are YOUR stories, your family can relate to them, remember them, and learn from them.
You may already have shared some of these stories, but, did you bring in Jesus, His teachings, His lessons, His love?
Grannies, we can no longer be hesitant or afraid to talk about Jesus; about our faith. I envision the internet burning up with Grannies Zooming or FaceTiming! You’re sharing with your families! You’re encouraging relationships with Jesus — to soften the blows of life, to ease the stress of situations, to explode in inexpressible LOVE and JOY!
Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 2 Cor 4:2 (NIV)
Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come. Psalm 71:18
07/31/20
PS: Oh, by the way, the three teddy bears got into the dryers and rolled around and around and around. Mother made it so funny. My brother and I had very sweet dreams that night.