Not All Families Know How To Family

The more time I spend with both my immediate and extended family, the more I recognize that we've formed our own unique community. We create our own rules, and our language isn't always clear to outsiders. We contribute to each other in various ways, and within the larger family unit, there are smaller, more intimate connections. Observing this from an outside perspective is fascinating, and it makes me ponder the role of family in God's plan for the world.

The scripture that immediately comes to mind is about being the salt of the earth, as mentioned in Matthew 5:13-16. This command from Jesus can be seen as both an individual and collective responsibility. On a personal level, each of us is tasked with positively impacting the world, whether by spreading the gospel, living generously, or baptizing in the name of Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit wherever we go. But what about the family unit? How do we carry out God's plan together?

Well, in Genesis the Lord gave Adam and Eve the command to multiply and "replenish the earth". But for what purpose? God was already pleased with what he created by the end of the 6th day, what else could we humans add to it? Simple. The glory of God!

Yes, the family unit can be used to showcase God's glory to the world, prompting others to focus more on Him. Proverbs teaches us that while parents can provide their child with an inheritance and wealth, it is only God who deserves credit for an understanding and prudent wife. And we know that the Christian home's structure is fundamentally built upon this foundational relationship: the husband, wife, and God.

All this to say, being born in a unit doesn't automatically make your "family"and not all families are actively glorifying God. Take a moment today and reflect on how you have been contributing to your family's purpose of glorifying God.