Hot Topics: Family Structures
The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
1 Samuel 16:7 (NKJV)
You are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In Him, you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
Ephesians 2:19-21 (ESV)
With the 21st century’s growing variety of family structures...
Happy people with their arms wide-open, are moving past “traditional” cultures, practices, or what some might call “normal”. What are we learning?
That the bounty of their welcoming hearts, in reaching out, is radically new!
That their accepting and inclusive love seems a novel and modern invention,
Which is wholly incomprehensible to judgmental, finger-pointing Christians!
But this cloistered, anger-bound family… doesn’t reflect our Savior’s family!
Recall the bloodline of Jesus, the Man, especially "questionable" members, who (on the surface) don’t seem qualified…
Including a prostitute, a pagan, a widow who “shagged” her father-in-law, and the unfaithful wife of a soldier. King David, the King of kings’ forefather, committed premeditated murder. (Yes, he repented and was forgiven.)
Basically, our Savior’s family includes all types of unlikely choices! (Also remember, to the early Jews, Christians seemed like impossible misfits.)
So how should we see (in family terms)...
Our world’s increasing mixes and matches? With loving eyes, leaving judgment to God. No one is asking “Christian” permission, but our surprising love can witness Christ!
Actors, models, and talent for Christ:
You’ve been commissioned as ambassadors in the most diverse family of all… namely, the Entertainment Industry!
Within it, you’ll see love without boundaries, and relationships most churches condemn. But you’re not representing “most churches.” You stand with The One Who loves everyone!
Hot Topics: Family Structure (Part 24)
NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God! We’re all called to be actors (action stars) for Jesus. We’re all called to be models of Jesus. We all have gifts, talents, and a commission to multiply them in the world for His glory.
P.S. NO DEVOTION, PREACHER, or SERMON… can begin to replace personal time in the Bible. I wholeheartedly and clear-headedly recommend DAILY BIBLE READING.
WARNING: Don’t focus on your favorite verses, because taken out of context, they’re often misinterpreted. I plead with you to READ AT LEAST 1 BIBLE CHAPTER DAILY. How long does it take? An average of 5 to 10 minutes!