THE LARGENESS OF LOVE

1 Samuel 2:18-20; Colossians 3:12-21; Luke 2:22-40

Introduction

The family is traditionally defined as the basic unit in society consisting of two parents raising their children. The family is the foundational institution God created, predating even the Church itself. As we reflect on our theme, "The Family, the Future of the Church," we are reminded that strong, Christ-centered families are essential for the vitality and longevity of the Church. 

Family and faith are intertwined so it is almost impossible to separate them. Let's just consider our relationship with God, biblical symbolic description includes: Abba Father, children of God, the church as the bride of Christ, Christ is the head of the Church as husband is the head of the wife, etc. We read the Bible and come across a list of lineage - which we often gloss over, but let's pause and think of their significance. There are a lot of lessons from those family trees.

    

In the family faith is nurtured, values are instilled, and disciples are first made. The church is never in error when there is so much emphasis on family life to encourage singles to find life partners. This is not to say singles are not important before God; in any case, everyone comes from a family. The Bible also teaches that, in the end, "God “will repay each person according to what they have done.”" (Romans 2:6). We are definitely going to stand in singles for our judgment, but the family is the shaping point of this judgment.

Our three Scripture readings stated above highlight the interplay between family life and spiritual growth, providing guidance for how we, as members of God’s household, can cultivate families that shape the future of the Church.

The Family is a Place of Worship and Nurture

When Hannah's prayers came through, she took time to wean him, “After the boy is weaned, I will take him and present him before the LORD, and he will live there always.” (1 Samuel 1:22). This family nurture showed the significant difference between Samuel and the other priests under Eli (1 Samuel 2:12-17).

In verse 18, we see the contrast between the preceding life of the priests, "But Samuel was ministering before the LORD..." Samuel’s parents, Elkanah and Hannah, demonstrate the centrality of family dedication to God. Despite their personal struggles, Hannah’s vow to dedicate Samuel to the Lord’s service becomes a profound act of faith and worship.

Christian parenting is a call to dedicate the children to God, not only in ceremonies of baptism, confirmation, church fun games, etc. but through daily practices of prayer, teaching, and modeling of faith. Hannah brings to life what the Scripture says, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6). Like Hannah, families should recognize that children are a gift from God and that their ultimate purpose is to serve Him. Parents should cultivate an environment of worship in the home, where children learn to see their lives as an offering to the Lord.

People of God, let us prioritize faith formation in our families establishing a stronger foundation for the future of the Church. Create regular family devotions and prayer times at home while encouraging open discussions about faith and biblical principles with the young ones. This is where Christian nurturing and discipleship can effectively be done.

The Family is a Place for Christian Character Formation

Paul wrote this letter to the Colossian church to address issues among them. One of such was poor family life which was affecting the church life and its future. In chapter 3 of the book, he discusses the evil past of the people to connect them to their new life. He explains the life in Christ to the people, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." (Colossians 3:13),

To bear with each other, empathize, and forgive, Paul outlines virtues that should characterize believers, including compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. He also provides specific instructions for family relationships—wives, husbands, children, and parents—emphasizing mutual love and submission.

The family unit is where a community of Christlike character is planted and nurtured to affect the larger society. The family is the first place where Christlike character is both taught and tested. It is within the home that we learn to live out the virtues of forgiveness, love, and unity.

Paul's model for the Christian household is about servant leadership. As a parent or elderly, you should lead by example, demonstrate humility, integrity, and a servant’s heart. Children learn by imitation and modeling, this will be their formation as they see them in the house.

Also, involve children in acts of service, teaching them to value others. Their obedience is the pleasing point before God Almighty.

Families should strive to embody these virtues, creating a culture of grace and mutual respect. Parents must discipline and instruct their children in the ways of the Lord without provoking them, fostering an atmosphere of encouragement and growth.

The Family Witness to God’s Salvation

When Mary and Joseph presented Jesus at the temple, they fulfilled the law of Moses and encountered Simeon and Anna, who outrightly recognized Jesus as the Messiah. This moment underscores the importance of family obedience to God’s commands and the family’s role in bearing witness to His salvation "For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel." (Luke 2:30-32.) 

The family also witnesses the future, “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” (Luke 2:34-35). The family prepares the young ones to fulfill their destiny in life. Under the tutelage of Mary and Joseph, a family unit, Jesus "grew and became strong; He was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on Him." (Luke 2:40).

Families that live in obedience to God become powerful witnesses to His redemptive work in the world. Considering Mary and Joseph, families should prioritize spiritual practices, such as worship, scripture reading, and service, which bear witness to God’s transformative power. These practices serve as a testimony to others, both within and outside the Church.

Precious one, the family is indeed the future of the Church so build a supportive Church-Home partnership. Engage in the life of the Church through regular attendance and participation. Collaborate with church ministries to reinforce spiritual growth at home.

Paul said to Timothy, "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also." (2 Timothy 1:5) This generational transmission of faith. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and extended family members play a vital role in passing down faith. Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness to inspire younger generations.

Conclusion

The family is not just a unit of society but the seedbed for the future of the Church. As we dedicate ourselves to building Christ-centered families, we contribute to a legacy of faith that will shape the Church for generations to come. Let us embrace our calling to nurture faith within our families, ensuring that the next generation knows and serves the Lord. Amen!

Shalom aleikhem...