It is on holidays, especially Christmas, that we realize the importance of family.  Before God ordained human government and the church He ordained marriage and family.  The Apostle Paul gave us some basic instructions concerning family in the book of Ephesians:  (1) Husbands, love your wives, (2) Wives, submit to your husbands, (3) Children, obey your parents, and (4) Parents, don’t stir up anger in your children.  What a different world it would be if all families conducted themselves by these.  Now we know families aren’t perfect, but they can be much better.  One of the greatest sins is selfishness.  It is usually what drives a wedge between husband and wife.  It is usually the problem parents face with their children (regardless of their age).  God has called us to selflessness.  Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?  It is the season of giving not getting.  Here are some great gift ideas that won’t cost you a dime and will make your Christmas and the coming year the best you have ever had.   Husband, really love your wife by your actions and your time.  She would rather have your affection and interest more than what you can buy her.  Gifts are nice, but they mean little if they arenot given from a loving heart.  Next to your commitment to God, let your priority be to love her and make her happy.  Wife, what your husband wants from you is your admiration, devotion and respect.   Don’t demean or belittle him.  Be his best cheerleader.  Pray for him and encourage him.  Children,  mom and dad need and want your cooperation and obedience more than anything else.  In that way you fulfill the commandment, “Honor your father and your mother.”  With that command God added the promise of long life.  Parents, give your children a safe, secure and consistent environment for them to grow up in.  Set the rules and stick to them.  Don’t do things that intentionally embarass or anger them.  Discipline in love.  Set good examples before them for them to follow.  Examples are set by the good things they see you do and the good things you don’t do, as well as, the not-so-good things they see you do.  I see many parents who exhibit before their children an inconsistent attitude when it comes to church attendance.  If you allow petty things to keep you from God’s house it quietly tells them that church isn’t that important.  Go when you want to or don’t go when your tired or want to do something else.   Be role models for them.  They don’t need you to be their friends; they need you to be their parents.  Above all, LOVE THEM and let them know it.

Family matters in this temporary earthly existence.  If there is alienation between you and family members seek to resolve them. Next to God nothing is more important than family.  If the Lord does not come for His church soon, you will have to say “good bye” to members of your family.   I am the youngest of five children (four boys and one girl).  Father and mother are with the Lord.  A few years ago we had to say “Good by, brother” to our oldest sibling.  We had to say “good by” to a nephew in his 30’s, killed by a drunk driver.  Take time to tell your family members you love them.  Spend time with them.  Reconcile differences.  Repent, forgive and accept forgiveness from God and from others.  Remember to forgive yourself.   Love with a pure heart fervently.  May your Christmas be filled with love and laughter and all the joy that comes in knowing Christ.