truth B told

My wife’s grandfather passed away last week. Ivan Frownfelter, 89, was laid to rest on Christmas Eve morning as the ground was covered with six inches of fresh fallen snow in Flint, Mich.

Funerals and Christmas don’t mix together too well. But gifts and Christmas do. And since both grandparents are now gone to be with Jesus, so the time has come to deal with the estate and the inheritance.

Ivan and Maxine Frownfelter lived simple lives. They had lived through the depression years, the wars, and several presidents. They, like many others who lived through the depression, saved their plastic grocery bags, bread ties and newspaper rubber bands. They had many glass figurines, some old dusty books, and boxes of priceless pictures.

But when it comes to major estate inheritance, their lives proved not to focus on materialism, but did emphasize on simple, good Godly living. And when it comes to inheriting something from your family—that’s priceless.

Here’s what my family inherited from the grandparents:

Hugs and Smiles. There was never a time we weren’t greeted with a hearty hug and a genuine smile of love and care. Showing affection for your loved ones is almost a lost art in some of today’s families. But we have learned the importance and power of loving gestures that warms the heart. We can pass this on to our children, nieces, nephews and younger cousins. Showing affection is worth its effort.

Newspaper clippings. Her grandparents occasionally would send us a letter in the mail with an added clipping from a newspaper article giving advice in some area of life. The advice may not have been rocket science, but the clipping was evidence that they were constantly thinking of family--even when reading the paper. Their thoughts were constantly targeted on the family. A newspaper clipping about healthy remedies for a headache was nice, but the thought behind it is invaluable.

The spot light. When we visited the grandparents and attended church with them, we were introduced to everyone as if we were million-dollar movie stars. They were so proud of their grandchildren. Not for any achievements or merit, but because they simply loved us and wanted to show us off to their church friends. Grandparents who pour their love into their family build self esteem, self respect, and a sense of dignity. Their outward appreciation and admiration for us has made us a better people.

A prayer covering. My wife’s grandparents prayed for us everyday. We were a regular part of their daily prayer lives with God. They would pray for our protection, for blessing, for our son, and for our ministry in Mattoon. They invested in our lives through prayer. Praying for your family is priceless. Do you want to pass along something significant to your loved ones? Then pray everyday for them that God would work in their lives in tremendous ways.

Memories. We have so many wonderful memories of holidays, vacations, and special occasions with the grandparents. These memories, many captured on film, won’t rust, wither, or be eaten by moths. These memories are masterpieces in our memory banks. These memories are far more important than any materialistic object could ever become. Are you making precious memories with your family? Making positive memories builds a heritage that will continue to be passed on through the generations.

When we think of an inheritance, we often think of property, wealth, jewelry, or antiques. Our minds naturally think of the materialistic side of inheritances. But let’s take time while we’re all living to deposit quality characteristics into our loved ones. Teach them good morals, first-class character, and a strong faith in Jesus Christ. Make positive memories with your family. Pray for them everyday.

Leaving behind a nice lot of land is one thing. Leaving behind a Godly legacy is another.

Grandma Maxine and Grandpa Ivan, thanks for the wonderful inheritance. We’ll be sure to pass it on.

// posted by travis spencer @ 7:26 AM