As I am writing this, my grandfather is likely approaching his final days on earth. His almost 91-year-old body, which has been ravaged by old age and dementia, is giving out. And although we will miss him being with us when God calls him to eternity, I know his spirit longs to be with His Lord and Savior.
My Grandpa’s faith has defined his life. A few years ago, as he was beginning to struggle with the effects of dementia, but it had not yet reached an advanced stage, we gathered at Grandma and Grandpa’s for a Christmas dinner. He didn’t recognize all our faces. He insisted he wanted a piece of cherry pie while pointing at a different type of pie. But when Grandma asked him to pray a blessing over our meal, he didn’t hesitate, and while talking to the One he loved most, it was as if the disease had retreated entirely.
As I reflect on memories of Grandpa from my childhood there are many things that come to mind–his fluffy white “Santa Claus” beard, his love for drinking coffee from those big thick white mugs, his affinity for John Deere tractors, his overalls, his chair.
But the one thing that stands out most is his infamous response to the question, “How are you, Cliff?” Without fail, he would nod his head and answer, “I’m blessed.”
Of course, as a child or teenager I would often shake my head or roll my eyes at his response. Blessed? He wasn’t wealthy. He was a farmer and always had to work hard. He didn’t drive a late model truck with all the bells and whistles. He didn’t live in a large home. I don’t recall him ever taking a real vacation.
As I matured and had my own family, I realized that Grandpa’s answer had nothing to do with material wealth. By then, I had learned there were many things in life that were more important: health, family ties, loving relationships, kindness, laughter. I understood that when Grandpa said he was blessed he wasn’t thinking about his house or a big bank account.
But as I have continued to live and wrestle with my faith through some very dark periods, and as my view of what it means to live a life of obedience and surrender has become clearer, my comprehension of what Grandpa meant when he said he was blessed has further evolved as well.
How did Jesus define being blessed? His words in Matthew 5:3-11 tell us exactly.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven…”
Jesus pronounced blessings on the humble, the hungry, the thirsty, the persecuted, the mourning. He declared blessings on followers who display mercy, purity, and peace. The blessed person whom Jesus describes in this passage has a different quality of character and lifestyle–one that is quite different from the “blessed” life our culture would point to. As Jonathan Pennington writes, “…the Beatitudes are an invitation to the way of being that will result in the [disciples’] flourishing.”
The Beatitudes are not a list of general human virtues that we must check off so that God will be pleased with us. They do not describe nine different kinds of people who will get to go to heaven. Instead, all the Beatitudes apply to authentic, genuine followers of Jesus, abundantly living a surrendered life in anticipation of the kingdom of God and His final reign.
Grandpa knew he was blessed, not because he was wealthy or powerful, not even because he had many moments of joy and peace, a wonderful church, or a loving wife and family. Grandpa knew he was blessed because he was sinful but that the penalty for his sin had been forever paid by Jesus’ death on the cross, and Grandpa lived his life in obedience and humble gratefulness, walking in the ways of His Lord, looking forward to all eternity with the King of all Kings.
I don’t know what happens the exact moment our body perishes other than the Bible tells us that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. But I can’t help but smile as I think of Grandpa coming face to face with Jesus. Maybe Jesus will ask Him how he is, and Grandpa will nod his head, smile, and say, “I’m blessed.”
I love you, Grandpa.
I too am so grateful for a faithful heritage, I too am blessed!
My grandmother had 13 children, 2 densely handicapped. Before her death at 89 she had buried 7 of her children, several young, and her husband. Yet the one characteristic Granny was filled with was joy! I should also add gratitude and contentment. I have always wanted topp be like her. Her daughter my Mom had a difficult life but was faithful,grateful and content. Praying I leave the same legacy.
This is a wonderful loving tribute to your grandpa. It brought tears to my eyes. He sounds like a wonderful man. I met and worked with your grandma Clara for a short time at Bethany Village in Anna. She showed so much empathy, patience, and respect for others working there and those who came in for help. She also showed and told of her faith in God every day. I only met your grandpa once, but am positive that he is how you describe him. He has to be, Clara wouldn’t have become his wife and shared a long happy life with him. Thank you for sharing these loving words about him.
Thank you, Linda, for sharing those sentiments. My Grandma is definitely a special woman.
Jennifer, this is a beautiful tribute to your grandpa. Your entire family is a blessing to us. Praying for all of you at this time and the days ahead. 💕🙏🏼💕
Thank you, Mrs. Terri. And thank you for your prayers.