Northcross Church’s Jo Warner was raised in a non-Christian home in a post-World War II environment. She shares how she learnt more about God’s grace and love in her retirement years—through the example, faith and love of people of all ages and sizes.
The household I grew up in was established during WWII—before I was born. Times were tough and work, money, and food were scarce. Many of those who had lived through the war had been born during WWI (that’s two world wars in 21 years!) and lacked confidence, connection, and vision for family life.
This generation carried scars that only time could heal. Imagine bringing up children during those years when many women had lost husbands, fathers, and brothers? Love was shown through getting by—not so much through talking about feelings with their offspring.
By the time I appeared, a daily smack on the leg (whether I needed it or not) was the only form of affection shown. We were fed and schooled with discipline and—guess what—we all survived.
I’ve come late to the ‘show-affection-to-others’ party. I’m pretty sure God gives new mums a special understanding of sacrificial love. But, nope, not having any children of my own, I missed out on that too.
But grace… God’s grace speaks to me the most about relationships—both His and mine, as well as mine and others'. And you know what? In my retirement years I've been shown grace and love from people of all ages and sizes. We are never too old to learn!
Recently this photo of Kelly and Hayden's young son Oscar (above) was taken during a Sunday morning worship time. It got me thinking about how children grow by love, example, and teaching.
From birth, children know who to trust by feeling the warmth, love, and comfort—firstly from the mother and then quickly from the father. Knowledge and faith in their parents follow. This lays the foundation for personal faith in Jesus. Feeling safe in their own environment allows freedom to trust God and praise Him.
Here I am praying with two-year-old Ella (above). Ella has been praying over other peoples 'boo boos' for quite a while. She lays hands on the boo boo, mutters in a meaningful way something that can't be understood, then finishes with her hands in the air and a loud: "IN THE MIGHTY NAME OF JESUS!”
I hear it really turned heads at her swimming class recently. Does she believe her prayer will be heard? I think so. Does God honour her prayer? You betcha!
The Bible encourages us that children can acknowledge, trust, and obey God. From Psalm 8, verse 2: "Through the praise of children and infants you have established (ordained praise) a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger."
