Pathways Press.com

Written by Nina Pope of the Village Church.

There are 5 of them, full of charm that delights the heart, individual and unique in their gifts and talents, yet as a group cohesive. There is a clear sense of each personality with a visible affection and concern one for the other. They range in age from teen to elementary grades to a nearly three-year-old. They are our five grandsons. On a recent holiday weekend, they gathered in San Diego, the memory of which still warms the cockles of my grandmotherly heart. Miles separate their households so the opportunity to gather is limited, but when it arises, it is roughly equivalent to an occasion of state. The three-year-old is enchanted with the older cousins who lavish attention on him chatting, laughing, playing indoors or out. Activities almost always involve some version of building or other creative play. Noise and motion combine as different cousin combinations group, re-group then go on to the next exchange or activity. It is rather like a happy kaleidoscope where each distinctly colored piece brings its beauty to join in the fun of the moment, pauses, then whirls anew into a different, happy collaboration with a luster all its own. On and on, the kaleidoscope of personalities emerge, share their gift, then continue into a new array and experience. Palpable fun and affection bond these cousins. The true joy for the surrounding adults is watching the enduring relationships develop despite the miles that separate their daily lives. My heart swells as I see a reflection of God’s love acted out on the family stage. God is all around us in ways minute and great. The blessings are plentiful and are ours for the savoring. NOTE: There is also a treasured granddaughter in the mix who was unable to join recently but who also brings her unique contribution to the kaleidoscope.

Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. [Psalm 127:3]