My grandmother got up at 5:30 every morning to make coffee, a full breakfast, and pack a lunch for my grandfather. After placing the food and any important papers inside of his black metal lunch pail she placed it on the table. She tidied the kitchen and sipped her own cup of coffee as he ate his meal and read the newspaper. No Wall Street Journal for him, he knew how the economy was by the number of orders waiting for him at his shop.
Standing up from the table my grandfather thanked my grandmother as she reached to clear his dishes. Reminding him of any plans for the day she would ask him what time he would be home for dinner. He almost always said 5:30 and she would reply that dinner would be ready by 6:00.
Except on the coldest of days, my grandfather would carry his work boots outside before putting them on. With his lunch pail beside him, he sat on the top step of a small concrete porch with beautiful ornate iron railings. He kissed my grandmother, said goodbye, and walked to his truck. As he drove past he made one final wave before heading into town.
Both of my grandparents were teens during the depression of the 1930’s. They married in the early 40’s and had two sons and a daughter over the next twelve years. As they moved an hour away from their families they sought out a church family by visiting various congregations. I can only guess from my own experience that they were looking to attach themselves to their community and to establish a foundation.
As my own children leave the safety net of our home during a time of economic uncertainty I am encouraged by my grandparent’s history. No matter how difficult and challenging the days may be, I can have hope.
Psalm 37:3-9 (NLT)
Trust in the LORD and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Commit everything you do to the LORD.
Trust him, and he will help you.
He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the LORD,
and wait patiently for him to act.
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don’t worry about evil people
who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop being angry! Turn from your rage!
Do not lose your temper—it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the LORD will possess the land.
Dear Lord, thank You for blessing this country throughout its history. Although the whole world is struggling and striving to create economic stability and social peace, You alone are the foundation that will not be shaken. In Jesus name, amen.
Written by
Mary M. Wilkins
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