Family Ties

I love young people. I suppose that doesn't surprise you. For 32 years I've had the awesome privilege and opportunity to give random agape to kids. The youth culture has shifted dramatically since the early years when I first began to rub shoulders with kids. Back in the day, many young people came from families that would be best described as sturdy oak trees. Strong with deep roots. Fast forward to the present and it seems so many kids can be described as coming from palm tree families. The palm tree is a symbol used for the party scene at bars and restaurants. It sways and goes with the flow. This swaying back and forth illustrates the turmoil many young people experience from their families. Families that have experienced divorce, cohabitation, step families, single parents usually absent from dads. This creates tremendous pressures for a young person. How will they survive?
As Jesus followers, we often are guilty of promoting a Biblical model for the biological family, that we forget that there is a family that supersedes this. It's the Jesus family! In Mark 3:31-35, Jesus is told that His mom and brothers were outside looking for Him. How does Jesus respond, "Who are My mother and brothers?" Jesus asked. Then He looked at those seated in a circle around Him and said, "Here are My mother and brothers!" Whoever does God's will is My brother and sister and mother." I love this idea where a crowd has gathered around Jesus in a circle. A circle that includes everyone who loves Him. This is His family. We who follow Jesus are in the circle. The circle doesn't just include our biological family. We need to include young people who need our love and care for them. Be challenged to open your home to young people. If you really want to see young people changed for Jesus Christ, they need our presence. Don't be selfish and only think of your biological family. Open your heart to His family. Get them in your circle. These are the days my friend! Jim "Train"