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From the Director of Missions

"Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers."  Proverbs 17:6

When the Bible speaks of a crown, it generally refers to two different but closely–related items.  One is literally an ornamental circle, often made of precious metal set with jewels and worn as an emblem of sovereignty.  The other is a reward or distinction for achievement.  It appears to me that we may receive literal, physical crowns that will be symbols of distinction (rewards of achievement) as we enter into glory Peter tells of receiving an unfading “crown of glory” when the chief Shepherd appears.  James and John both speak about “receiving a crown of life.”  Paul in 2 Timothy 4 talks about there being laid up for  us a “crown of righteousness.”  Jesus warns in Revelation 3 of his soon return and the necessity of holding fast so that no one steals our crown.  And Revelation 4 speaks of casting crowns at Jesus’ feet.  Since June is the month that we draw special attention and appreciation to our dad, it is with Jesus’ warning thought in mind that I first want to speak to granddads in reference to the Proverbs passage above.

Grandma may have a “brag book” filled to overflowing with pictures of her beautiful grandchildren ready to share with anyone who will listen to the wonders and accomplishments of her glorious grands; but grandpa may I let the word call to your attention an ever more important mission?

Grandpa, have you ever considered your grandchildren a reward or distinction of accomplishment that you could lay at Jesus’ feet?  Putting it another way, have you ever envisioned leading your grandchildren to faith in Christ and assisting them to grow in him as not just your responsibility but your “crowning” opportunity?  Often as grandparents we can take a little more time and listen a little more intently and develop deeper relationships that will in turn provide greater opportunities of sharing the truth of God’s word.  I can think of no sweeter crown than that of a child or grandchild trusting in, surrendered to, and serving the Lord!

So much for granddads!  Now how about fathers?  What does Proverbs 17: 6 say about fathers?  They are the “what” of their children?  The KJV says dads are the “glory” of their children.  The word for “glory” in Hebrew in this verse is “tipharah.”  It means, not just “glory”, but also “honor,” “majesty,” “bravery.”  Do you live such a life that your children find strength and courage in you because you have placed your faith and confidence in Jesus Christ?   Do you live a life that is so God-honoring that it deserves your children not just honoring but emulating?  It takes courage these days to take a stand for God and right!  But it’s very apparent throughout the scripture that God expects men to hear and heed the call to be leaders and examples in living to and for the Lord. 

A Swiss study done in 1994 and released in 2000 found that in relation to church attendance if both parents were faithfully committed to God statistically 33% of their children would be faithfully committed, 41% would be marginally committed and 28% would be lost.  If just mom was faithfully committed 2% of the children would be, 37% would be marginally committed and 60% would be lost.   If just dad was faithfully committed 33% would be faithful, 38% would be marginal and 38% lost.  The bottom line conclusion was that if dad is not faithful only one child in 50 will be faithful!  What a sobering thought!.  No wonder Proverbs 17: 6 declares that grandchildren are the crown of old men and fathers are the glory of his children.  Such a word from the Lord makes me want to fall to my knees and beg God to help me be more honor worthy, more faithful to the Lord, and more diligent in guiding my son (and hopefully future grandchildren) to do the same.  Granddad and dad, are you working on your crown and glory?  After all Christ has done for me I’d hate to have no crowns or glory to lay at his feet in thanksgiving!  How about YOU?  HAPPY FATHERS DAY!

Brother Doug