Posts about Families (2)

[As appeared on Minneapolis Star Tribune] Here we are, just a few days into the New Year. How are those resolutions looking?

Christmas is a season of joy and celebration—but it can also become a source of stress if we’re not careful. The pressure to attend every event, buy endless gifts, and create picture-perfect moments can quickly overwhelm us, robbing us of the true spirit of the holiday.

The family altar is a time when the family unites together in the practice of three main elements: reading the Bible, praying, and worship. This triad helps the family foster spiritual growth, reflecting on godly character maturation.

Ready for some chef-worthy ideas for kid-friendly cuisine and connection? Christmas break is right around the corner – a great time to come together intentionally in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

[As previously seen on iBelieve] A few years ago, the flu hit a few members of our family right as Christmas break was starting. Plans of traveling out of state had to be canceled. Church festivities had to be skipped. Even Christmas morning traditions had to be adjusted. We were homebound for the holidays.

We are officially in the Christmas season. Most of us have stuffed ourselves with turkey (or tofu?), watched football, done some Black Friday shopping, and maybe decorated our homes. While those things are nice, they don’t guarantee we will be in the mood for Christmas.

As the holidays approach, many look forward to time spent with family and friends. But possibly just as many do not. Let’s face it, relationships can be messier than grandma’s famous sticky buns. And during the holidays, special situations arise where we may have to see estranged relatives or interact with former friends – activities that might be avoided at any other time of the year.

[Also seen in Nashville Christian Family] When Jesus commanded believers to go into all the world and preach the gospel (Matt 28:18-20), He didn’t put any age limits on it. With their innocent faith and endless energy, kids can be great missionaries! Sometimes it’s us parents who need a little convincing.