GRANDFATHER'S TABLE

This is a story which my husband used as an illustration in one of his sermons some twenty-five years ago. His sermon was based on the theme 'In as much as these'.

Today my husband sits at a feeding table and this story often comes to my mind as I gently help him direct is feeding utensils to his mouth which for the most part is a real challenge.

AGED GRANDFATHER WHOSE SHAKING HANDS CAUSE HIM TO DROP THINGS IS BANASHED FROM THE FAMILY TABLE TO EAT FROM A WOODEN BOWL.

A frail old man went to live with his son, and daughter-in-law, and four year old grand-son.

The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table.

But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon unto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milks spilled on the tablecloth. The son and the daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.

"We must do something about Grandfather." said the son; "I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor."

So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.

There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed the dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.

When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear or two in his eye as he sat alone.

Still the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.

The four year old watched in silence. One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly , "What are you doing?"

Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food when you grow up."

The four year old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents that they were speechless.  Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate with the family.

And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth got soiled.

....A child shall lead them.