Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. --Deuteronomy 4:9
There are 50 million grandparents in the U.S. and they are playing an increasingly important role in American families. Although some grandparents are having little contact with their grandchildren. Some children, teenagers, or young adults are more familiar with television celebrities than they are with their own grandparents.
Things such as geographical location or busyness can always make it difficult for a family to truly be together, but your children and grandchildren have much to gain from you. "Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life" (Job 12:12, HCSB).
The Foundation for Grandparenting (www.grandparenting.org) says research indicates that the grandparent-grandchild bond is second in emotional importance to the bond between parents and children. There are many benefits for families who bring the generations together. Through close intergenerational relationships, children and grandchildren learn they are a part of something greaterĂ¢â‚¬"history. And people who have contact with those who are older tend to think beyond their own generation.
As a senior, you represent stability, security, and heritage. You can offer unconditional love, encouragement, and support, and you are an important connection to the past. You are wealthy with wisdom and experience that can be shared with younger generations. And even if you don't have children or grandchildren, there are young people in the world today who long to be mentored by you and your generation.
The connection you make between generations will benefit both you and those who are younger. The younger generations can gain from your knowledge, and you will feel younger being in touch with their generation.
PRAYER CHALLENGE: Seek wisdom from God in connecting with the younger generations and passing on a legacy of faith. Ask God to bring about a young family member or a younger person in your life to whom you can guide and mentor.


