I think our conversation on Sunday helped us to realise that even though families may not look the same, it would be wise allow our definition of the concept, family, to be much wider,that perhaps we are invited to honour families of all shapes and sizes,for it is what happens within those relationships that is important-some of the questions we asked were-
Is love real and tangible?
Is forgiveness an active ingredient?
Are the connections deep and meaningful?
If all these are visible, then the good news is that a family can be a sign of God's kingdom for it will be a source of grace, a place where you know you belong, no matter how badly you have messed up, or how far you have strayed- so even though the norm, so to speak, is not visible in the form of dad, mom, 2.5 kids, a dog and a cat-it's a family, and home is a good place to be!
Two things that were important to remember:
1.Every member of the family is special and unique
2.Every member has a resposibility towards the others-each person helps to bring a sense of wholeness.
However the picture of family is even much bigger-St Paul tells us in the book of Romams chap 8, that those who live by the Spirit of God, are sons and daughters of God! we are heirs in His kingdom alongside Jesus!
That thought can keep you going all week now, don't you think!
Let's hear from you...
i really am enjoying the theme this month and how the sermons are unpacking issues that are actually basic, but we tend to overlook and forget most of the time.thanks for also having the sermons etc on the web to refer to.slats
ReplyDeleteCarol -
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful service on Sunday 24 September 2006. Although I am blessed to be in a relationship - remembering my single years I know that one can be equally blessed as a single person. However what really struck home was that we must never wish our lives away, and that we should be lapping up the joys of life daily. Something I struggle with - putting conditions on my happiness - this year has been a steep learning curve for me. We so often pin our happiness to our aspirations, dreams and goals - when I get my new car; my promotion; buy that new house - even when I meet that special person.... then I will be happy!! The problem is that we will never be happy, and end up living for the final result and not enjoying everything in-between. Once we realise that happiness is within each of us, irrespective of our situations - we start living and the other things fall into place:)
Regard
Warren