Written by Rick and Sue Beeney, Legacy Coalition Ambassador Program Directors
Most Grandparents are missing important opportunities to pass on their faith to their grandchildren. At Legacy Coalition, we help grandparents grow in their biblical role through our resources and events, so that they can have a greater spiritual impact on their family.
As staff members with Legacy Coalition, we’ve tried to apply and think of important opportunities that we were missing with our five grandsons! God brought to mind these two practical ways to maximize those opportunities.
Building Relationships
Last December we invested in two E-bikes; one for each of us. Little did we know how much our three oldest grandsons, would love them! We often watch our grandchildren and Jack our oldest grandson (age 15), on one of his visits, asked, “Hey Papa, can I ride one of the E-bikes?” Of course, grandpa said yes and proceeded to give him some lessons on shifting gears, using the power assist mode, and of course how to NOT use the throttle all the time!
We took our first ride up and down our block, just to get the feel, nice and slow. Well, he had it mastered in just a few short tries. This same procedure took place with two of our other grandsons. Now, each time they are over it is automatic that we take bike rides.
It has become a special time of creating memories while building a closer relationship with them. We all look forward to these times.
Shared Experiences
Another thing we do is that when a grandson graduates from eighth grade; we take him on a one-week trip anywhere in California. This last year, our Joshua (14), wanted to go fishing for the week, so we booked a trip to the June Lake Loop. On the day before we were to leave, they called and canceled due to COVID-19. So we went to plan B. We were able to book a week in Utah (things were open there) so we chose to go to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. WOW, little did we know what a great experience that would be.
What a great faith lesson to share. Our plans may get changed but God can turn it into something amazing. From disappointment to amazement – God is so good to us!
Bryce Canyon was awesome and at Zion, we were able to rent E-bikes, tour the park, and even go fishing together. This gave grandpa quality individual time conversing about God and life. An added blessing is that our Bluetooth helmets allow us to communicate with each other even as we ride. We have had some incredible conversations that may not have happened otherwise.
So, look for and take advantage of those important opportunities that come up with your grandchildren!
Remember to spend individual time with them, doing things they like to do, that you also can do. Make the most of it by using these times as springboards for spiritual conversations that naturally occur during these personal, special times. It could even be on an E-bike for adults!
