by Cavin Harper

How does the Olympic torch get lit? It is lit by the reflection of sunlight in a parabolic mirror at the restored Olympia Stadium in Olympia, Greece. It is then transported by a torch to the site of the modern Olympic games. The torch gives birth to dreams: athletes dreaming of winning the gold; countries dreaming of success across numerous sports; and children dreaming of becoming Olympians.

We can light the torch for our grandchildren in a very similar way. Like the parabolic mirror, we have the opportunity to absorb the light of Christ’s love and transform it into a focused beam, strategically aimed at the hearts of our grandchildren. We can help light the torch of dreams, fan the flame through encouragement and come alongside to help carry the torch.

In his book (and subsequent movie), The Ultimate Gift, Jim Stovall highlights the importance of allowing someone to dream and the value of pursuing that dream. “God accomplishes what needs to be done here on earth through people—just like you. So allow yourself the opportunity and permission to dream a beautiful and good dream. When you do, it’s amazing the wonderful things you and God can get done together!”

Many children are in need of the permission to dream a beautiful dream. Carry hope to these children by donating to the Christian Grandparenting Network “Carry The Torch Fund”. Your financial support will provide aid to grandparents who find they are unexpectedly raising their grandchildren, scholarships for GrandCamp, and funding for workshops and seminars that help grandparents understand their valuable role in their grandkids lives. Light the torch and watch how it shines its light in the world.