pilgriM - Make time for family and loved ones
We live in a connected society. We can video call people on the other side of the world. We sit in traffic among hundreds of people, we work in spaces that are often densely packed and do our shopping in malls where we contend for parking with hundreds of others.And yet we are lonely.
Sundays have always been called family time, but very often our family gatherings are part of a script that involves rush, too much food, and very little real connection.
Our Sunday pilgriM challenge is that we: "Make time for family and loved ones. Connect deeply. Write notes, make phone calls, spend quality time together..."
While we can have many many acquaintances, we need to nurture those who are "closer than a brother". Sadly, many people spend more time on social media with people that are not our "inner circle" than with the present people that keep us going.
We need to reconnect with those who are the source to our strength.
If you're a dad write notes to put in your children's lunch boxes - tell them you're proud of them and love them. Send an encouraging text to a loved one who needs it. Take a slow stroll with a loved one. If you eat a meal with family, keep the meal simple and the pace slow. Look your spouse in the eye and remind them that you love them. Cuddle your children or grandchildren. Appreciate a friend who has been there for you.
Finally, take time to pray for your loved ones - this is one of the most profound gifts you can give them.
| A man or woman of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs18:24) |
