One Day at a time, a daily reflection

by surprisedbyjoy@yahoo.com

December 13

You have been a wonderful friend

"A friend loves at all times…" Proverbs 17:17a

When my grandfather died, Grandma was numb with grief. Her beloved life companion of seventy-two years was gone. She had been strong like a rock during his final illness and the funeral. But when it was all over, she was exhausted. I had the privilege of taking her to their cherished summer home for the first week after Grandpa’s funeral. They had bought this small cottage during their early years in America. They raised their children here and had huge picnic parties for their Norwegian friends during the summer. Grandpa had taught all his grandchildren how to swim in the local lake. He had nerves of steel, for he also took us all driving when we had our student driving permits.

All through that week, I cooked for Grandma and took her out for leisured car drives. We sat in the yard and talked about her life with Grandpa by the hour. In the evenings we went to the lake and watched the boats. She took long, undisturbed naps in the sunshine. I remember watching her sleep while my heart ached for her. Grandma had nursed Grandpa devotedly around the clock for the past ten years. She was weary and worn out. Gradually the reality of her loss began to sink in. We became very close. I cherish every memory of that difficult and blessed week.

All too soon, it was time to close up their summer cottage and go home. Grandma turned to me and said, "Thank you for being such a wonderful friend." And I thanked her for being such a wonderful grandmother.

What kind of legacy will I leave behind? Perhaps as a minister, I was able to encourage someone in the hospital or preached a few good sermons. I’ve tried to be kind and courteous, giving generously of my time and ministry talents to those who had no money. But Grandma’s words ring in my heart. I was able to be her friend, as well as beloved granddaughter. And she trusted me enough to perform her dear husband’s funeral and insisted that when it was time, I was to perform hers. This is a significant part of my legacy. I am grateful to God beyond words for the memories. She was more than a grandmother to me. She was my friend. And a friend loves at all times.

Prayer: God, bless us with a legacy of deep friendships. Amen.