Having a toddler in our home is special these days. We absolutely loved it when our kids were that age. We had the privilege of watching our youngsters learn new things that we took for granted. Observing their little discoveries brought us great joy.
The cheerful greetings our toddlers gave us in those days are gone now, but grandchildren have taken up the delightful habit. They look forward to coming to the farm to see Grandma and Grandpa. We enjoy sharing our lives with them.
One of our toddler grandsons is 2 years old. His language skills are limited. But one word we can easily recognize is, “Papa.” It means. “Grandpa.”
Grandpa works out of doors. He comes indoors for breakfast, lunch and supper. Our grandson waits expectantly when the basement door slams shut. That is Grandpa’s door.
Now, Grandpa is a fun person. He plays ball with this toddler. He can take him for tractor rides. He plays, “Hide and Seek” with his grandchildren, too. Waiting for Grandpa to come indoors comes with anticipation.
When our little guy hears the telltale “thump” of the basement door announcing that someone has come in the basement, he expectantly waits for the one he loves…Grandpa. He does not always get a glimpse of Papa, but each sign raises his hopes that pretty soon he will see his grandpa. The signs include: the light goes on in the basement; the weather radio blares the forecast and weather conditions; the water faucet gushes its chilling streams as somebody washes his or her hands; occasionally a familiar shadow slips across the wall. Patiently, with excitement building, our grandson broadens his grin and eagerly waits for his great friend, Grandpa. Every second our the little fellow listens and waits.
All at once, Grandpa comes into view. He greets the little soul who watches intently, puts one foot up on a step and unlaces his work shoes, one at a time. Finally, he comes up the stairs. The wait is worth it! Grandpa scoops the little child up in his arms and they go to play with toys together.
Can you feel the excitement this little boy must feel? Can you imagine the joy that is welling up in his heart? Can you appreciate his focus on the one he awaits? And how about the anticipation and the hope fulfilled he experiences?
Pondering this little child’s waiting, you may agree with this thought. How nice it would be if we all looked forward to our dear Lord’s coming like a little child waits eagerly for Grandpa. How are you waiting?
Photo Credit: Deena Hall
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