We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Our two boys from Florida, James and Andrew, drove all night to get here. That was pretty special but in the car was my newest daughter-in-law, James’ wife, and my newest grand baby, Titus. If you haven’t heard about this sweet baby, you can see what I wrote about him shortly after he was born here: Have I Mentioned My Grandson.
We had a wonderful visit. Titus is such a good baby and it was a joy to watch his parents, who were just kids not too long ago, take care of him with such tenderness and love. Andrew, who is getting married in May, was a lot of fun to be around. He always has something funny to say and no one is immune to his quick wit. Andrew preached twice for us on Sunday. James led singing Sunday evening. My buttons were busting.
Danpa thoroughly enjoyed getting to know his newest grandchild. He got to introduce him to his own dad. His dad is suffering from Alzheimer’s and has been in a nursing home for several years. Whenever you go see him, you’re never really sure if he’ll recognize you or even respond to you. The day Granddad met Titus was good for all.
In the bulletin Danny publishes for our local congregation, he wrote a short piece about his thoughts while rocking Titus. I wanted to share them with you here:
I Rocked Titus Last Night…
by Danny Dow
Last night I rocked my 4 month old grandson, Titus, to sleep and beyond. As I did with my own sons, I stared intensely at his little features and thanked God for this precious addition to our family. God’s word whirled through my mind as I prayed.
I stared at his little eyelashes, tiny ears, sweet lips and button nose which were all “fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psa. 139:13-14) A precious soul made in the likeness of God (Gen. 1:26-27). This adorable child is priceless — given life by the Great Creator.
I thought about the words of the Psalmist, “Lo, children are a heritage of Jehovah; And the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the children of youth.” (Psa. 127:3-4) I held in my arms one of the greatest physical gifts God had ever given to man. I reflected on the great challenge that laid before my son and daughter-in-law to train, spiritually prepare and shoot this little arrow forth into a vast world. I am confident that with the Lord’s help they will be successful in teaching him to love and respect God.
The sweet innocence and complete trust that this little baby placed in me and others made me think of Jesus’ words. “suffer the little children to come unto me: for to such belongeth the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 19:13-14) “Except…ye become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. “…humble (yourself) as this little child.” Matt. 18:3-4) Is this how the heavenly Father looks at me? Is it possible (even as a sinner) I am as strongly loved and as precious in His sight as Titus is in mine? I must strive to be more childlike.
I was also reminded that although I may not be Titus’ father, I am his father’s father and I am responsible to keep God’s Word ever before him. As Moses said, “…make them known unto thy children and thy children’s children.” (Deut. 4:8-9) I will strive to help his parents and do my best.
“Children’s children are the crown of old men; And the glory of children are their fathers.” Proverbs 17:6
