Monday, January 04, 2010

Extended Family

Several months ago, I was pleasantly surprised when Jesse and Tammy asked me to be the godmother for their daughter. I am also a godmother to two other boys (Jacob and Jordan), but because the boys have many godparents, I never took my role too seriously with them... just taking them out every once in a while and buying them gifts.

For my goddaughter, however, things are very different. I know that I'm the only one. It's a huge responsibility. I realize that I'm a lot more thoughtful about how I interact with her. As a godmother, one of my key responsibilities is to guide her spiritually. Even though she is only 8 months old, I'm already trying to do my part in spiritual guidance... by teaching her good Christian values. I'm careful to not spoil her with material things, like I have done with my godsons. And I try to say things to her about honoring her mother and father. When I babysit her, I recite Bible verses to her, tell her Bible stories and pray with her. (It's great that God has made her a very well-tempered and all-around pleasant baby so far... makes babysitting very easy.) It really looks like she's listening when I do those things with her!

As she grows, I know it will be even more difficult to guide her spiritually, but I consider it a privilege and honor to be her godmother. And I am grateful that Tammy and Jesse gently guide me in how they want their daughter to be raised, and for allowing me to be part of the process. It is my prayer that God allows me to actively participate in the growth and maturity of this precious little girl, and shows me how.

Perhaps many of you are already godparents and have some advice to give me. I welcome any advice I can get.