“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”   Romans 12: 10-11

I awoke this morning to the news that my grandfather passed away during the night. He spent 99 years on this Earth. He loved the Lord, his family and friends, and spreading joy wherever he could. He faithfully demonstrated his devotion to God and family and served others before himself. He knew he had been blessed in countless ways and lived his life to the fullest.

One of his favorite activities was boating time with family. I was blessed to spend time with him in April of 2021 when I traveled to Florida with my sister and parents. We rented a pontoon boat and took him out for a cruise through the channels near Naples. He stared out at the view, apparently in awe of the surrounding beauty and I could see him soaking in every minute of the day. He did this so well, showing gratitude always.

“Clean plate club” was a group my 12 cousins and I strived to be part of during visits to the Lake Carlos cabin when I was a child. Grandpa did not let resources go to waste and repurposed anything he could around the house. Through a group text conversation with my cousins today, pictures were shared of him wearing the same blue tropical shirt and white shorts, on different outings with family in recent years. We joked that he would not let you buy him any clothing unless the clothes he had on were torn and falling off. I think his frugality was rooted in ensuring others in this world had what they needed. He would be so happy his grandchildren are connecting and smiling on this day.

I wanted to write a devotional this Lenten season, but couldn’t understand the reason I was putting it off. God, now I get it! You have blessed me with this special time to pray for my grandfather, shed tears as I mourn the loss of him, but above all to rejoice in his life and what he taught me by the way he spent his days.

My grandfather was a gifted singer and proud to share this talent. He never missed a chance to sing out loudly and joyfully during a church service. I believe angels are singing in a great chorus for him today as our Lord welcomes him home.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Your gifts are so great. Thank You for the blessing of time spent with grandparents. May You help us to love and serve others with zeal, spread joy, and give thanks for each day we have together. Amen.