One Big Family

¹⁵For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship.^a]'>[a]

And by him we cry, "Abba,^b]'>[b] Father." ¹⁶The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.

¹⁷Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in

his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.  Romans 8:15-17

 

I am overcome this morning with the knowledge and promise of the great family of God.  This greatness not measured only by it's goodness rather  by it's vastness beyond my comprehension.  I grew up in what most people would consider a big family.  I have six siblings, five sisters and a brother.  We did all the normal things like pick on each other, fight with each  other and ultimately love each other too.  You would think that I would be used to enormity but in fact I am much of loner on many levels. Being surrounded by people all the time with very little privacy made me crave solitude all the more.  Living in a four bedroom home with one bathroom did not lend well to that desire.

 

I am encouraged now however by the realization that I am never truly alone.  I think my latent tendency from childhood still rears its head and demands to be indulged. My stubborn independence and pride sometimes influences my decision to attempt tasks as an individual that would be best accomplished as a group.   As a result, I then withdraw from the chaos when I feel overwhelmed by constant change seeking quiet solitude with God.  A time when I can converse with Him in prayer, journaling or quiet meditation.  These times help me process my emotions and ask myself the hard questions that help me grow. In these moments however, it is obvious to me that

God is with me and by extension so are those who are called by His Son.

 

I am thankful that through Jesus Christ I have an extended family of sisters and brothers that although not relatives

by my human blood, are part of my family by His saving blood.  These people, these glorious children of God

have come to my aid in many ways over the years.  They have supported my spiritual growth through prayer

and study, explanation and debate, discussion and compassion.  They have provided for physical needs

during times of great stress or illness.  They have shored me up emotionally by comforting me in loss and

celebrating in times of great joy.  But best of all, even when I am alone, whether by choice or circumstance,

I know I don't have to be.  I can call on Jesus, or I can call on His children.  I never thought that I would want or

need more when it came to family.  The truth is, we all can use more.  More love, more support, more

encouragement and with that comes more family.  The wonderful, crazy, varied beyond measure, enormous

family of God.  And I am so grateful to be a member of it!

 

I am praying for you, "my family"!  May you be blessed today beyond all you could ever ask or imagine!