During this autumn season, we have enjoyed the beautiful yellow and red color of the leaves in most areas of our country. My husband and I traveled this fall in Colorado and Utah; the autumn leaves were radiant and gorgeous. Seeing the transition of the brilliant autumn colors made me reflect on the autumn season of my life. When my children and grandchildren look at my life, what do they see? Do they see my life radiating with God’s love like the beautiful colors of the autumn leaves? On the other hand, do they see an unhappy grandparent full of anger, bitterness, and self-pity?

Paul gives us some good advice in I Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Paul is challenging the Thessalonians to be joyful, praying continually and give thanks in all circumstances. We will have some difficult times, however if we trust God as we go through those times with a thankful heart that He is walking with us, we will be joyful, radiating God’s love. Isn’t this a great lesson to teach our grandchildren? A friend once told me that being thankful and not expressing it is like wrapping a present for a friend and not giving it to them.

Let’s reflect God’s love with joy and gratitude to our grandchildren like the autumn leaves radiant their brilliant colors

Ask God to give you opportunities to share His faithfulness with your grandchildren during this Thanksgiving season

© 2010 Lillian Penner