"We Are Fam-i-ly"

Thought this was a great post/resource to share with Christmas being next Friday and family flying in from all corners of the earth. Though it is hard to admit and seemingly at times even more difficult to deal with practically, family get-togethers can be a strain. I know many families that are personally dealing with family relationship issues, and some of them are a little too close for comfort, if I am being honest. Hopefully, you won't have to deal with these things this Christmas season but I am willing to bet that you or someone you love is dealing with this up close and personal.

I think what bothers me most about it is that it affects Christian households as often as those who are not believers. It's not that I expect that Christian households be exempt from family problems. My concern is that when these problems arise in Christian homes, there should be a distinct difference in the way that they are handled. Responses and actions should not look like the world's playbook for dealing with difficult circumstances: Back biting, gossiping, sarcasm, having attitudes that indicate self-centeredness, entitlement, "me first", and being egocentric manifestations of hypersensitivity and blathering arrogance.

There's more... fill in your own blanks... ______________

Christ modeled what we are supposed to do as people in His family: Speak the truth in love, treat others as greater than yourselves, turn the other cheek, honor your father and mother, forgive others as Christ forgave you, do not let the sun go down on your anger...

Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Here are a few truths discussed in Tim Lane's booklet, "Family Feuds: How to Respond"

1. Every family is flawed
2. Flawed families need God's grace
3. Your family of origin does not determine your identity
4. God's call to love includes your family
5. Families can be changed by the cross of Christ

Some stated practical strategies for change:

1. Respond with grace to your family
2. Take responsibility for your own sins, not your family's
3. Become and instrument of grace
4. Make wise choices for your children
5. Persevere in love

Something to think about this Christmas season as we spend time with loved ones who may or may not be able to be with us this time next year. May the Lord bless your time together during the holidays!

HT: Justin Taylor

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