Open Hands Lifted Up

Family and friends recently celebrated my grandfather's 90th birthday.  Jake is 90, Roland is 60, and yours truly is 30.  The 30-year generational spacing is a tradition I am not doing well to continue. 

I have always admired my grandfather (and grandmother...but it's his birthday so he gets special attention).  His life has been marked by a rich, enduring faith; consistent, hard work; and a deep love for his family.  Anyone who spends a moment with Jake will quickly hear him speak of what God has done and is doing in his life and-in the same breath-he will give all glory to God.  He truly lives with open hands lifted up.

This posture of open hands lifted up speaks to both giving and receiving.  Open hands that are ready to give  thanks and praise to God and open hands that are postured to receive God's direction and blessing.  It is this posture that, at least in part, captures his legacy thus far.

In thinking of this posture I became mindful of the following passage from Exodus 17:15-16:

"Moses built and altar and called it The Lord is my Banner.  He said, 'For hands were lifted up to the throne of the Lord.  The lord will be at war against the Amalekites from generation to generation.' "

I am grateful--to God--for my grandfather.  A man who has lived life with open hands lifted up to Christ who is his Banner.  

Grandpa, it is this posture of praise and dependence before God-in all things-that I am grateful for as I celebrate your 90th birthday.