Daily Devotional: A Grandmother’s Legacy

The Lord said, “Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart. Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise.” - Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NRSV)

Read: Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Over 60 years ago, following a family tragedy, my brother and I moved in with our grandparents. I was eight years old, and it was a significant emotional adjustment. Reading The Upper Room, which I found on my grandmother’s nightstand, guided me through those years. Through those readings and my grandmother’s love, Jesus became real to me.

My grandmother worked hard to care for my brother and me, especially after our grandfather died when I was 13. Imagine being 70 years old and facing the daunting task of raising two teenagers alone! But she knew she was never alone. She had Jesus, and she never let us forget how much we were loved — by Jesus and by her.

When I became a mom, I was determined to instill God’s word in the lives of my children. No matter our struggles, I always knew where to turn for help and reminded my children that we always have a direct line to God through prayer.

Now I’m praising God for grandchildren. They are the joy of my life. I praise God for the lessons I learned from a loving grandmother and from time spent with The Upper Room.

Dona Bakker

(California, USA)

Today's Prayer: Thank you, loving God, for parents and grandparents who create a positive, everlasting influence on their children by centering their lives on your word. Amen.

Thought For The Day: Because of Jesus’ love for me, I always have love to give.

Prayer Focus: Grandparents rearing grandchildren