Tag: family

A Gift We Never Take for Granted

Posted in Adoption, Church Chat, Discipleship, Life Happens, Ministry, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Some joys come quietly, almost humbly, and then grow so large they change everything. That has been our experience in our granddaughter’s adoption.

From the beginning, she has brought a kind of joy that settles deep into the soul. Her laughter fills our home, her presence softens our hearts, and reminds us what truly matters. We did not simply add a child to our family—we were entrusted with a life, and that responsibility has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives.

One of the greatest joys has been watching what she means to our son and daughter-in-law. As parents, their love, patience, and devotion shine through in the way they care for her each day. She has deepened their bond, strengthened their home, and filled their lives with a beautiful purpose. Seeing them grow into their roles as mom and dad has been a gift to us as well, one that brings quiet pride and deep gratitude.

Adoption is not a second-best story. It’s a beautiful story marked by sacrifice, courage, and love.

Adoption is not a second-best story. It’s a beautiful story marked by sacrifice, courage, and love. We are profoundly grateful for her birth mother. Her decision was not easy, and we honor the strength it took for her to choose life and to place her child in the care of a family who would love her deeply. Because she chose life, we have the joy of watching this little girl grow, learn, and thrive.

Our granddaughter’s life has enriched our family in ways words cannot capture. She has renewed our sense of wonder, strengthened our faith, and given us a living reminder that hope is not an abstract idea—it has a face, a name, and a future. She constantly reminds us that each life is precious in God’s sight.

We are thankful. Thankful for adoption. Thankful for family. Thankful for a brave birth mother. And thankful, above all, for the gift of life that continues to bless us every single day.

4 Ways to Help Busy Families

Posted in Church Chat, Church Consulting, Church Revitalization, Leadership, Life Happens, Ministry, UncategorizedLeave a comment

God created the family before He created the church.  Because of this, the church should be especially sensitive to the challenges and pressures families face today.  Here are a few ways the church can provide much-needed help to families.

1. Decrease the scheduling demands.  Many churches expect people to be at the church every night of the week, but this just isn’t possible or healthy for the family.  Churches should streamline Sunday activities to free up time for family outings.

2. Provide opportunities for families to serve together through the church. Family-oriented mission projects and service teams are great ways to allow families to serve together.

3. Provide opportunities for families to fellowship together. Family picnics, church fellowships, pizza parties, father/child outings, and mother/child outings are just a few ways to bring the family together.  When planning for the family, the church should be aware that many do not have “traditional” families. In response, churches should provide opportunities for single-parent and blended families as well.

4. Supplement costs. Often larger families cannot afford to send more than one child to camp or on a special trip. Providing scholarships or fund-raising opportunities for these families will meet an important need.

In some ways, the church becomes an extended family.  The Bible teaches that the bond between God’s children in this extended family should be strong, authentic, and transparent. Let’s do all that we can to strengthen the family in the home and in the church!