Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Sometimes we take for granted looking in the mirror. We stare at our reflection daily as we prepare to go out and meet the world. Our attempt to improve our image seems to fade as time goes on. But if you stop and think about it, our image should improve over time.

Through life experiences we have had opportunity to sharpen our wisdom and discernment. Adversity and trials should have taught us how to persevere. But what is our image reflecting?

Seeing my new little grandson, Benjamin, (Hebrew origin meaning "son of the right hand") and his mom, Heather, in the reflection of the mirror reminds me of the responsibility I have as a grandmother. The example that I set could be reflected for as much as four generations to come.

In Deuteronomy Chapters 4 & 5 (NIV), Moses is introducing the laws that the Lord has given him to share with the Israelites. In Chapter 4, verse 9, Moses says “Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Even in the Old Testament, we are given instruction about the responsibility as grandparents to help nurture and teach our grandchildren. We should have more wisdom and life experiences to share with them than even their parents have acquired.

After Moses shared the Ten Commandments with the Israelites, he reminded them again in Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (NIV) that “these commandments are to be upon your heart. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”

I am reminded of my responsibility as a grandmother of a precious little girl, Emma Grace, who is three and a half years old and my new little grandson, Benjamin August, who is three months old. My influence in their lives will help pave the way for them. Taking the straight and narrow path will ultimately be their decision, but God will hold me accountable as a grandmother to help teach and nurture them.

Each time I look in the mirror, I am reminded that I'm not the only one who sees the reflection.