Tag Archives: the modern family

Resting in Hope

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bAbAMXtiPM

Fifty years ago, most families consisted of a husband, wife and children.  In those days, moms stayed at home, taking care of the kids while the father was usually the main bread winner.  Over the last half century, this sight is rare, like a species of animals on the verge of extinction.  Subsequently, adults are now working nights, weekends or two jobs just to keep up with their monthly bills.  The idea of resting in hope is a fantasy for many tired souls.

Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope, Acts 2:26.

On the Day of Pentecost, Peter was filled with peace.  Looking back on the last few months, the hand of God on Jesus’ life, death and resurrection began to make sense.  This clarity boosted the spirits of the disciples.  Despite Jesus’ absence following his ascension into heaven, a metamorphosis was ongoing in the hearts and minds of God’s people.  Peter attributes this reformation due to resting in hope.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all, 2 Thessalonians 3:16.

Stress has an opposite effect on individuals, leading to restless nights.  A by product of stress, worry induces doubt, causing minds to wonder if things will ever improve.  This is where I am from time to time, struggling to remain optimistic.  Nonetheless, when I reach low points in life, I am reminded of the promises in the Bible.  The more I hear and read these words, I begin to rest in hope.

by Jay Mankus

Redefining the Family

Gone are the days of the Flintstones, Jetsons and Waltons.  Instead, the Brady Bunch was ahead of its time, a portrait of the modern family.  Two parent families with the same partner have become like an endangered species, a sign of the times that the nuclear family is being redefined.

“Who are my mother and my brothers?” Jesus asked. – Mark 3:33

Single parents, same sex parents and abandonment is causing children to grow up way too fast.  Subsequently, 2016 presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton believes it takes a village to raise a family.  Meanwhile, liberal politicians want to expand the school year and extend days to 12-14 hours per day so that the government can become their nanny.

“Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” – Mark 3:35

Ahead of his time, Jesus was one of the first historians to redefine the family.  While teaching at a Jewish home, relatives tried to get Jesus’ attention from outside.  Not phased by this distraction, Jesus throw people for a loop.  Looking at his disciples in the eye, his response surprised those in attendance.  According to Jesus, family is defined by those who do the will of his heavenly Father.

by Jay Mankus