Lessons from the Heart
Degrees of family
By Pastor Sam Davenport

"Let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also to the interest of others." (Philippians 2:4)

Nick Stinnett, chairman of the Human Development and Family Department at the University of Nebraska, headed a study to determine what common strengths are in strong families. In other words, what are the things that stable, loving families have in common?

According to the study, three things strong families have in common are: 1) A high degree of religious belief. In the families studied, religious convictions were more than just a philosophy; they were central to a family's life. 2) Appreciation. Family members gave one another compliments and built one another up. 3)

Time together. In all areas of their life - meals, work, recreation - these families scheduled intentional time together.

The study concluded that many families grow apart, not because they are poorly matched or because their purposes in life are in conflict; they grow apart simply because they do not spend that needed time together to build trust and deeper friendships.

After reading a brief summary of the study, it was obvious to me that people in churches are no different. To be strong and united, churches must have a high degree of commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Our faith cannot be something we merely believe in, but a way of life. This life must be shared with others because we are convicted that Christ is among us, whether we are in worship or out serving in the larger community. (Matthew 18.18-20)

Back in the late '70s and early '80s, there was a lot of parenting talk regarding quality time with family. The thought was we may not have but a few moments with our families so we must make it quality time. I like the way Ann Landers put it, "Kids don't understand 'quality time.' They just want to be with their parents."

The more time families spend working toward the same direction and not going their individual ways, the more understanding they have of one another. The same comparison can be made of the church. The more time we spend together in worship, prayer, study and service, the more we come to one another through Christ who lives in us. (Colossians 4:16-17) Yes, we are family!

Sam Davenport is interim pastor at First Christian Church, Flora.