Grateful Living

Jillian Thomas and her husband, Graeme, have been worshipping with us at HBBC since 2019. Together, they serve faithfully on our welcome team, greeting people warmly as they arrive.
In this heartfelt reflection, Jillian shares a deeply personal story—a treasured memory of her grandmother, whose quiet strength, loving spirit, and deep faith left a lasting legacy. Through childhood visits and shared moments, Jillian was shaped by the example of a woman who truly lived out the love of Christ.

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My grandmother, Flora McGregor, lived in Ballarat, Victoria. I was just seven and lived in Warrnambool. During school holidays, I would travel three hours by bus to stay with her while my parents were at work. I still remember the moment the bus pulled in—Gran waving a white handkerchief, always thanking the driver for bringing me safely.
We’d catch the tram to her house, where a warm fire awaited us and a special treat she had lovingly prepared. Gran had come from Scotland and had been widowed young, left to raise four daughters aged 3 to 11 on her own. Life had been difficult, but she faced it with quiet strength.
At night, she’d undo her bun, letting me brush and plait her long grey hair. We shared a beautiful iron bed, layered with rose-pink satin, feather doona, and big soft pillows—so different from the plain blankets at home. Before going to sleep, Gran would open her Bible, read scriptures or Psalms, and then pray. She’d say things like, “Dear, always look for the good in people.” I felt safe, knowing I was deeply loved.
Each morning, Gran rose early to light the fire before calling me to breakfast. Her home was always open to neighbours, friends, or family. My cousins would often visit, and Gran would play the piano or her harp as we all sang along and played games at the big dining table.
On Sundays, we rode the tram to church. I saw how much people loved her and how she gave so freely of herself. My mother, her eldest daughter, had to leave school at 11 to work as a dressmaker after their father’s death. She often told me how God faithfully provided—groceries left at the door, money mysteriously appearing in the mailbox.
The verse in 2 Timothy 1:5 speaks deeply to me: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice…” I, too, have been shaped by the sincere faith of two remarkable women—my grandmother and my mother—who reflected the love of Jesus in all they did.