A Prayer for my Grandson
Dear James Eli,
Welcome to the world! It is already a better place because you are here. There are so many thoughts and dreams, prayers and plans we have for you.
You are named after your paternal grandfather. It is not because you are meant to copy his life; rather it is because you are loved as much as he was (and still is)! His life was cut short, but he lives on in the stories we tell, the memories of him that we share, and the legacy of a life well-lived. It is a profound thing to carry someone’s name and legacy. Your life is entirely your own to design and yet I know you will honor the name well. I am so proud that you share the name of your grandpa, but even more proud of the way it will represent you! Sharing his name is an invisible thread that will carry a piece of our family history. I hope that the way you live honors the history and the heart behind it. Your grandpa was born in California, November 8,1955, and he died of brain cancer on Nov. 5, 2010. He was the youngest of four kids and as he liked to quip, “the youngest are the smartest and best looking”. He was!
He was small but smart, musical, magical, and like the eagle scout he was, always prepared. He was friendly yet introverted. He had humor and integrity. He was actually named after Jamestown, Barbados, the ancestral home of his mother’s family. I never knew her, just as you will not know your grandpa this side of heaven. You will hear stories and all you need to do is look at your daddy to catch of glimpse of what he looked like and his gentle and humorous character.
The most important thing about your grandpa Jim is that he loved Jesus and he lifted high this most important name of all. We each have the chance to hold the name of Christ uniquely. Like your grandpa, be courageous, love well, lead with kindness, live for God.
I am so proud to be your grandmother, and I cannot wait to see all the wonderful things you will do. Happy Birthday 8/22/26. I loved spending your first day on earth with you!
With shared breath, Mimsy
Dear Lord,
I lift my grandson – James Eli – into your hands
Protect him wherever he goes
Surround him with your peace
Guard his heart, his mind, and his body.
When he is unsure, guide his steps.
When he is tired, renew his strength.
When he feels alone, remind him you are near.
When he fails, do not let him believe that is who he is.
Protect him from the wrong people, the wrong paths, and anything that would steal his joy.
May he come to a saving knowledge of you and may he be a blessing to his family.
Keep him close even in seasons when he drifts away.
Don’t allow bitterness, doubt, and hate to claim his heart or thoughts.
Make him both strong and gentle, respected and kind, grateful and generous.
You see what I can’t, and you will see him all the days of his life. May he be salt and light, reflecting you wherever you lead him.
And may you get all the praise. Amen.