Family Ties

            Recently I had begun to feel a sense of guilt because I have a more meaningful bond with my church family than the family that I was born into.  I mentioned it to a dear friend of mine who reassured me that this is the way it should be.  My husband pointed me to Matthew 12:48 where Jesus is told that his mother and brothers were waiting for him and Jesus’ response was “who is my mother and brothers?”  This shows just how much he loved his disciples and also affirms how much we should want to be His family, even forsaking our own to be with Him.

            So what do we do when torn between our birth family and our adopted family?  We pray that one day they would join us, of course, and stay steadfast in the Lord!  Recently my wonderful pastor spoke about a relative who mocked him preaching the message of the cross.  I felt his pain as I have recently had to deal with this same issue.  Unfortunately, those who were close to us before we knew the Lord will often resent our spiritual growth. 

            If you are reading this and you are new to the family of God, please do not be discouraged when someone makes a “high and mighty” or “holier than thou” comment.  If anyone asks “Who are you to be talking about God all the time?”, first tell yourself, “I am a child of God, called to do His work, just a sinner saved by grace” and then if you feel led, tell them. 

            Once again my point is to not be discouraged when you make hard decisions to live a godly life.  It is inevitable that many will not be happy, especially if you don’t focus on them so much.  My friend, you were made to focus on God! 

            For those of you who aren't new to the family of God, let this be a reminder that you may be the only family that a brother or sister in Christ can reach out to.  Be an encouragement to those that are new to this wonderful family!  As for me, I am eager for this family to grow and see one spectacular wedding!  God bless you all!