Recently we took a trip to Ireland to visit Jordan's family. While there, I asked Naomi's mother what words of wisdom she would have for mothers who have to raise children without a father as she had to for at least half of Naomi's raising. Her answer was to live what you teach which was such great advice, and is exactly what she has done. Naomi then piped up and said that her grandparents stepped in and that made it feel like the gap was filled. Not that she didn't miss her father's presence, but that her needs were met through her grandparents. Jordan then mentioned that he also felt like his grandparents made a huge difference in his life, and I know they did. Their walk with the Lord and concern for his well being were significant.
I don't have profound thoughts on this subject, but it is open to comments if others want to talk about their experience. God designed the parents as a covering and protection for the children....but that obviously does not mean the grandparents are then disposable. God has them typically living long enough to be around for the influential years of their grandchildren's lives. It's like another layer of covering. Extra insulation. Or perhaps extra inspiration. Maybe filling gaps that otherwise wouldn't be filled or adding another dimension for more depth and perspective in these children's lives.
As a foster parent, I would say that grandparents could even spare the children from the harsh realities of foster care...but that could be a whole 'nother subject.
Praise God for grandparents.....
