Elder Wisdom by Ron

We Are All Beloved – Even our Relatives!

First off, I have to tell everyone that Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. The thought of slowing down, gathering your family around a table, sharing good meals, telling and retelling family stories, or just being in the presence of those who you hold dearest in your life just fills my heart.

It can also be a tough time for families who struggle with relationships. I know many families deal with broken or damaged relationships. These feelings often strain or break the bonds of family. If you find yourself in the company of the “crazy uncle” or the sibling who you disagreed with over the years, try to remember that God has love for them. Seek to heal your heart for a few hours and remember that God called them his Beloved too.

I don’t expect years of hurt to fade away at one meal but set your heart as the Lord and try to remember the following verses.

Proverbs 3: 3-4

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck and write them on the tablet of your heart.”

Romans 12:10

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

May God bring peace to you and those around your table during this Thanksgiving season.