It has been a privilege recently to have my parents visiting with us. The other night, we were sitting around listening to some stories of their childhood. We listened to stories of long, cold and dark nights before electricity and indoor plumbing. Their days were filled with plenty to do besides going to school, hanging out with friends and playing video games. There were cows to be milked, a garden to be tended and sap to be gathered for making maple syrup. All of these experiences and more served to build a strong bond between siblings as well as with mom and dad.
Time has brought many changes. Today, the things that can consume so much of our time outside of work and school are things that draw our attention inward, toward ourselves—things like television, computer, music, hobbies, etc. None of these things are evil in and of themselves. The unfortunate result of having a steady diet of these things is they do not generally foster relationship building with others and closeness with family members and friends is sacrificed. It is too easy for each family member to become absorbed in their own interests and there are too few activities or chores that bring us together.
During this time of the year when we are focusing on family, intentionally seek out opportunities and activities that will build on those relationships with others. Take a walk together, play games, go with a friend or family member to visit someone you have not seen for a long time, read the Bible and pray together, take some time to simply talk about your childhood or just share some memories together. Be creative and share your experiences with others.
Proverbs 27:17 tells us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” As we invest in the lives of others, together we are becoming a better person. As believers our goal is to be conformed more and more into the likeness of Jesus Christ. Commit yourself today in a greater measure to those things that bear eternal dividends.
