One of the definitions of family is "all the descendants of a common ancestor." When I read that I think, we are all God's children. We spend so much time in our lives building and growing relationships. Some of us are blessed with a wonderful support system and some of us are not. God asks us to love one another, lift up one another, bear each other's burdens. I've always looked at my support network as more than just my direct relatives. The world is suffering too much not to.
What I've learned as my time as an imperfect husband, father, brother, cousin, nephew, and follower of Jesus is that "family" really means "the people you can rely on in good and bad times." And God wants us to be that for our brothers and sisters of this world.
I now have a blended family, which I don't really like calling it that. Because it's the world's definition. We're simply, a family. We love each other wholeheartedly. We support each other, we council together, we worship together, we celebrate each other. Are we perfect at being kind to one another? Not always. But we work hard for what we have. And we have a perfect example to follow in Jesus.
Parenthood is complicated but beautiful. As my wife stepped into this role of motherhood that was probably not her ideal situation and has had its own set of challenges, she has emulated a pure love of Christ. Is it hard?
Sometimes every day. But I believe our lives came together because that's what we both needed. With knowing there are so many families suffering today post-pandemic, we wanted to be a part of, and give to an organization that extends the love of Christ. And be a support network to others that aren't as fortunate as we have been.
Jesus gave to the poor, healed the sick, helped the weary, carried, and still carries our burdens, loves us unconditionally as adopted children. He died for us to be forgiven, and to live with him again....for me and for anyone reading this."Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13 NIV). If God proclaims that love is greater when we love those that are our friends, then considering all people are family should also be included in that.
Proceeds from the sale of this album during the upcoming worship night will directly benefit Safe Families for Children charity so they can continue the work of building more support networks and safe havens for those children and parents seeking it.
If you want to learn more about Safe Families for Children Charity or other ways to can donate, please visit their website here or leave a tip with a note on my site, or visit OliveCrest.org
God Bless you and see you at the worship night!