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The Father, The Lord Jesus Christ & and The Holy Spirit -
FAMILY BONDS
By Julie A. Dawes
As the time of the birth of our Saviour approaches, I think of Joseph and Mary as she gives birth to her first baby. I find myself wondering what it was like to raise a family back in those days.
Back then, people didn't worry about 'affording' a family. Children were blessings from God. If their family didn't grow or the wife was barren, they would ask God why they were being afflicted!
The family was supported by each member's laboring, and as it grew in number, so did it grow in love and strength. Can you imagine the family bonds that must have existed in those days?
Today, even though families are smaller and harder to support, family bonds still exist. I have to admit that Christmas time is when I feel these bonds the most. Some people refer to it as the "Christmas Spirit".
Christmas time is when I feel the most loving and giving toward my family. I can not give enough to my parents, husband, and children; nor can I possibly express to my siblings and their families just how much I love them. Even a Hallmark card won't do!
Yet, this is the time of year when the desire to express my love is the greatest. Thank you, Lord, for I am truly blessed.
It is my opinion that people who are depressed and lonely on holidays, are suffering from the lack of family bonds. Perhaps they don't have a family.
Our heavenly Father, in His infinite wisdom, has provided a way for us to never be in that situation.
You see, when Mary gave birth to Jesus, it was not only the beginning of a family for her and Joseph, but of the church family as well.
Family bonds with our brothers and sisters in Christ are just as strong. One wonderful difference about this family, though, is everyone is welcome to become a member! Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to take on the Name of Jesus Christ!
Just as we must support our own family, we need to support the church family as well.
Our tithing provides a building for us to gather in which makes possible the opportunity for us to bond with our brothers and sister. It provides the means of food for our spirit and rest for our souls. In a manner of speaking, it provides a home for the homeless.
As with any family, the more it grows in number, the more it shall grow in love and strength.
May God's blessings be upon you and your family!
MY SPECIAL FAMILY
By Julie A. Dawes
I have a special family,
It's quite large in number;
From infants to the elderly,
I cherish every member.
We take care of each other,
And strive for harmony.
We encourage one another,
To be the best that we can be.
We live all o'er the land -
Yet whether glad or bleak,
Father gave a command,
For us to gather once a week.
We give financial support,
To keep us all together.
Then we give a weekly report,
Of happenings with each other.
Father appointed an elder,
To feed and nurture us all.
We talk with brother and sister,
About our plans -
We pay homage to our Father,
Ere leaving for our residence;
Feeling more assured and calmer,
Renewed in strength and confidence.
I have a special family;
For no other will I search.
I love these people dearly -
The members of my local church.