Family Time

We often hear the expression regarding some activity or outing, “that’s family time.” It is good to set aside times in our families just to be together without outside intrusion.

Well today it’s family time.  Time to meet with my spiritual family.  It has been for as long as I can remember.  I’m talking about my church family. 

In Galatians 6:10 we are called “the family of believers.”  In I Timothy 3:15 Paul refers to the church as “the family of God..”  And in Ephesians 2:19 Paul affirms that “you are members of God’s very own family.”

The early Christians looked at their relationship like family members. They were brothers and sisters. In Acts 2:42-47 we see them eating together from house to house, sharing together and helping each other in time of need. It is obvious they  embraced their new relationship in the Lord and really cared for each other

This day, Sunday, is a set apart time decreed by our Father for Family time.  Of course, we live before Him daily, but today we put aside other activities and interests to come before His presence in a very special way to pay Him homage.  The early Christians met on the 1^st day of the week.  It is an appointed time for our family to gather (Acts 20:7).

This family time is also special because of what our older brother, Jesus, has done for us.  He took our place and died the death we all deserve.  In this special time together we remember and honour Him for His sacrifice for our sins.

This family time is also special because we all can come together and enjoy each other’s fellowship.  We receive encouragement, reassurance and support when we come together in this family time.

Our world today longs for the affection of family.  People today feel disconnected.  Disenfranchised.    And alone.  There is so much dysfunction in our physical families, that people are seeking community and long for the feeling of a family with which they can identify.  It is important that the world sees the church NOT as an institution, but as  a loving family that is caring, considerate,  and connected.

The Church Family should be close-knit.  It should be a Family where relationships are developed and nurtured.  A Family where mutual love and care abounds.  A Family where responsibility is taught.  A Family where loving discipline is exercised.  A Family where healing and protection is provided.

Ken Hemphill expressed it this way, “For many new Christians the church is the lap that provides warmth, protection, comfort and healing. It is a safe haven and a center for healing those wounded in battle.”

I sure hope you have a Church Family that you can meet with today.  If you don’t, let me know, and I’ll help you find one.  Because family time is important.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman