Submitted by David Miller
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity… Titus 2:7 ESV
We know artists by their most important creations: Michelangelo by the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, Beethoven by his "Fifth Symphony," George Lucas by the Star Wars saga, Jack Webb for Adam 12 and Dragnet (ok, only some of us remember those shows). However, each creation reveals something of its creator.
The same is true of God. We catch a glimpse of the Artist at work by reading the first two chapters of Genesis. He spoke galaxies into existence, formed the mountains, filled the oceans, and planted forests with a magnificent range of color and variety. His playful side is evident in creatures such as humming birds, ostriches and skunks. But the masterpiece that reveals more about God than anything else shows up when God made something called "family" (Genesis 1:27-28).
Two essential elements of family — marriage and parenthood — reveal God's character like nothing else in Creation. The love between a husband and wife provides a glimpse of Christ's passionate devotion to us as His bride. In the same way, the ups and downs of parenthood offer a compelling picture of God's tenderness and patience toward us as His children.
And family does more than reflect God's character. It provides a safe place where children can experience God's love (through their parents) and learn how to love other people.
Even Christ himself was born within the context of a family. "God in the flesh" submitted to an earthly mom and dad to model what it means to honor parents and to benefit from their loving direction. It was within the nurturing care of His earthly family that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men… (Luke 2:52).
Our children need to know that God has a special purpose for placing them within a family. They need to know that the family unit is bound together by God and for the ultimate purpose of bringing glory to Him and to build His kingdom. Take time to talk with your children about these key points.
• The family is a masterpiece of God's Creation.
• Marriage and parenthood reveal God's character.
• God gave you your children so they can experience His love and learn how to love others.
Parents, we have been given the most awesome job of all. Teaching our children about the love of Christ and living out a very real relationship with a very real God in front of them. Teach them well.
Scripture to Claim:
Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. Proverbs 1:8
