Grandparents as newlyweds after World War II |
Few people will likely have the impact on me that my Grandpa and Grandma Ver Steeg did. They blessed their children (my mother) and grandchildren with endless riches, and it didn't come in the form of currency. What they gave us, no money on earth could buy. They embraced my father, their son-in-law, as their own and poured their love into his heart. They were willingly used by God to bring healing in my dad's broken places. Though perfected in Christ Jesus, they (like all of us), did not live perfectly. They did, however, exemplify what many who profess to know God do not. You would know Carl and Driscilla Ver Steeg by their love. First, their love for the Lord Jesus Christ; secondly, their 50 years loving each other as husband and wife; thirdly, the undying devotion and godly support for their children; and last, but not least, they made us granddaughters feel like we were the apple(s) of their eye(s).
Family was their favorite pastime. Sitting around their table was a memory filled with stories, laughter, prayer, and Dutch bakery treats! Whoever walked into their home was welcomed with hospitality that could only come out of an overflow of their love for God. I miss them, ache for them, and am so thankful that Heaven is our eternal home and that in the best of life yet to come, I will be with them always. My heart will always hold them near. I'll forever be grateful that they poured Jesus out and left me a rich family legacy. I currently enjoy this same legacy with my own father and mother, and long to always share it with my own family at every gathering around our table.
I've been contemplating this legacy of love more, lately, through the process of moving with my folks.
Ver Steeg Family 1957 -Carl and Driscilla with their children (L to R: Mary-7, Jane-3, and John-10) |
Memories in the attic
A place I long to be
Tip toe up the stairs, push the creaking door
Endless delight there to see
Memories in the attic
Where fun and games are waiting
Puzzle pieces of heritage
Stories on Grandma's lap and Grandpa's knee
Memories in the attic
An important place to me
A treasure of tales to tell
Three sweet faces filled with glee
Memories in the attic
A painful place to breathe
Death came to the treasure keepers
It's time to pass the Key
Come brush the dust away
Favored things chosen before we leave
Recall the glory of His life poured out
A legacy of Hope and Love to cleave
Memories in the attic
More than just things
Unfolding of history
Discovering my family song
Tea Time with Mom (L to R: Libby-8, Abi-10, Mom-ageless, and me-5) |