Genuine Love
Today, my thoughts are filled with memories of my grandmother, whom I fondly call Grandmartie. When I think about love—especially love within a family—she is always at the top of my list.
One of my earliest and most cherished memories is of her sweet voice singing a lullaby to me. Her arms would gently enfold me as we rocked back and forth in her chair, creating a sense of safety and warmth I’ll never forget.
Grandmartie loved my visits. There was always such joy in her face when I bounded up her back stairs and walked into the kitchen. I could barely wait for her arms to wrap around me in a hug that felt like home.
Living close to her meant I could see her often. I remember those times when she had chores to do and I’d wander into the attic, trying on old clothes and playing with her childhood dolls, imagining the days she’d spent in that same space.
Her phone calls were always a highlight of my day. It seemed like she had a way of calling at just the right moment, and our conversations would flow as if we had never been apart.
As a shy teen, I received some of the most valuable advice from her: “Gail, whenever you can’t think of something to say, just smile.” It wasn’t long before I found that smiling became second nature to me. More often than not, a smile returned to me, and in that shared moment, I’d see something in their eyes—pleasure, and sometimes, even hope.
When I moved away to college, Grandmartie’s letters became treasures. They were filled with such detail that I could almost hear her voice and feel her presence beside me.
But the most precious gift Grandmartie gave me was her love for Jesus. Every time she spoke about Him, her eyes would light up with a sparkle that made me want to know Him just as she did.
When I made the decision to invite Jesus into my life during my sophomore year, it was Grandmartie I called first. That moment strengthened the bond between us, and our hearts grew even closer.
As I embarked on my missionary career, I realized that God had revealed His plan for me: to share His love with others, just as Grandmartie had done throughout her life. Even after moving to a retirement home with my grandfather, she never stopped loving and encouraging people. She continued introducing them to Jesus, always finding ways to serve and love those around her.
When my grandfather passed, Grandmartie’s spirit remained unbroken. Despite the challenges of macular degeneration and her eventual move to a care center, she maintained her sweetness and constant love for others. Her warm smiles never ceased, and they were a reflection of her enduring faith.
A few months before her 100th birthday, God called her Home. Though I can no longer see her or hear her lullabies, the love she poured into my life will remain in my heart forever. It was through her love that I was drawn to Jesus, and it’s that same love that I carry with me today.
As we celebrate this month of love, I encourage you to reflect on the person who first filled your heart with love for Jesus.
“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love, I have drawn you to myself.”
Jeremiah 31:3