ties that bind

1 Corinthians 13 : 2 (NLT)

“If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing.”

Our family of seven, a trio of grown “kids” and two amazing daughters-in-law, spent a wonderful, three day weekend together. These times are a precious blessing, and I thank God for the ways in which He’s joined our hearts and for the tenderness and loyalty that permeate our moments together and apart.

We tie-dyed, played games, swam, walked, went for boat rides, and threw a surprise party for two that recently accomplished much to celebrate.

The beautiful connections that occur in our relationships are not accidental but intentional.

That is a key word for every Christ follower: intentionality.

Not acting out of impulse or ever-changing feelings, but out of a depth of humility, strength, and empathy that the Holy Spirit provides.

These are the characteristics that bind a family together through all the ups and downs that make up our full, complicated, imperfect human lives.

God is love and love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (1 Corinthians 13:7)

My prayer today for your family and for mine:

May He keep us humble and gentle, patient, bearing with one another in love. (Ephesians 4:2)

May He keep us trustworthy and generous, forgiving, kind, and sincere.

Thank you, God, for bringing us back whenever we lose our way. Thank you for convicting us whenever we set our eyes on the wrong places. To you be the glory forever!

Lord, may we constantly recognize and acknowledge that you are with us, and may we remember that it’s not in our own power, but in yours, that these fulfilling and divine connections came to be.

Thank you, Lord, for the cherished gift of family and may you fasten our souls for all of eternity.

In the name of Jesus, Amen.